NYPL RESEARCH LIBRARIES
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NORTH DAKOTA
HISTORY AND PEOPLE
OUTLINES OF AMERICAN
HISTORY
ILLUSTRATED
VOLUME II
CHICAGO
THE S. J. CLARKE PUBLISHING COMPANY
1917
99230n
A.'.r:::, li;::u.\ amp
TlLUtN liUL.NUAlJU.NS
WrnUAM H. \VinTE
Biographical
WILLIAM H. WHITE.
When death called William H. White on the -1th of September, 1916, no resident of North
Dakota had been continuously engaged in business within the borders of the state for a longer
period than he and none enjoyed a more unassailable reputation for business integrity or had
a more creditable record for enterprise. He was the founder and promoter of the William H.
White Lumber Company, which owned twenty-four diii'erent yards in North Dakota and
Minnesota, but business constituted but one phase of his activity. He never neglected the
higher, holier duties of life and became one of the charter members of the First Methodist
church, the first church established in the state, remaining therafter one of Its most helpful
representatives. His religious belief guided him in everj' relation of life and found expression
in his conduct at all times. Thus it is that his memory is enshrined in the halo of a gracious
presence and of the highest principles and remains as a blessed benediction to all who knew
him.
Mr. White was born in Whiting, Vermont, July 31, 1851, a son of Lyman P. and Phoebe
(Keeler) White, who were also natives of the Green Mountain state and representatives of old
New England families. His paternal grandfather, Elijah White, a native of Massachusetts,
served as a commissioned officer in the Revolutionary war and later removed to Vermont. The
father was at one time president of the Rutland & Burlington Railroad and subsequently
became chief fuel agent for the Chicago & Northwestern Railway Company, witli headquarters
in Chicago. In 1869 he removed to Brainerd, Minnesota, where he continued his residence until
his death several years ago.
The boyhood and youth of William H. White were spent in Vermont and Wisconsin, his
education being completed at Lawrence University in Appleton, Wisconsin. At one time he
was a resident of Chicago, where his father was engaged in the lumber business. In October,
1871, when a young man of twenty years, he reached Brainerd, Minnesota, and on the 1st of
May, l'872, arrived at Moorhead, Minnesota, with the timber for the approaches of the North-
ern Pacific railroad bridge, which made possible the laying of the tracks into what is now the
state of North Dakota and provided the highwaj' for the advent of civilization into the then
wild western territory, there being no railroads or bridges built in the state previous to that
time. In 1872 Mr. White took lumber by fiatboats down the Red river, supplying the first
lumber for the cities of Grand Forks, Elm River, Pembina and Emerson. In 1873 he shipped
lumber to Sixteenth Siding, or Steele, thirty miles east of Bismarck, and thence forwarded
it to Bismarck to be used in the construction of the first houses builded in that city. It was
at that time that he became acquainted with Colonel C. A. Lounsberry, to whom he furnished
lumber to build the first newspaper plant in what is now North Dakota. After remaining in
the lumber trade at Bismarck for a year he returned to Moorhead and in 1874 he operated flat-
boats on the Red river. It was in that year that Mr. White became a resident of Fargo and
began the development of the extensive lumber business in which he was for so many years
continuously engaged. In fact he was connected with the lumber trade of the state from 1872
and was sole owner of twenty-four lumber yards in North Dakota and Minnesota, with head-
quarters in Fargo. His business was developed along substantial lines. He readily discrimi-
nated between the essential and the non-essential and his utilization of advantages which
6 HISTORY OF xXORTH DAKOTA
came to him brought liim success, while his even paced energy and unremitting industry carried
him into important trade relations. In no small measure he contributed to material progress,
for he was one of the founders and directors of the First National Bank of Fargo, the oldest
banking institution in the state, and he organized and set in motion the clerical work of the
city auditor's and treasurer's offices in Fargo.
ilr. White was also intimately identified with nearly every early enterprise for the
upbuilding of the state and had the unique and unusual reputation of having refused practi-
cally every political oilice within the gift of the people of North Dakota, being absolutely
averse to accepting any political preferment. Moreover, he had the distinction of being the
first and oldest church member representing any denomination in the state and he devoted
much time to the promotion and development of religious and educational institutions, being
especially interested in the work of advancing the well-being and care of aged ministers and
teachers who wore themselves out in the early service during the formative period of North
Dakota's history. He took a most helpful part in upbuilding the first Methodist Episcopal
congregation of North Dakota. The little society built its first house of worship in 1874
and a portion of that building is still standing, being now a part of the large frame structure
at the corner of Eighth street and First avenue. South, in Fargo. He was a prominent factor
in the building of the four houses of worship of the First Methodist Episcopal church which
have occupied the original site and he purchased and placed in the belfry of the first church
the first bell which proclaimed that Christianity had been established in North Dakota — a bell
that is still in use. For several years he was president of the board of trustees of the North
Dakota Conference of the Methodist Episcopal church, was for forty years president of the
board of trustees of the Methodist Episcopal church of Fargo, was at one time president of the
board of trustees of the Methodist Episcopal University at Wahpetou, which is now Wesley
College and is located at Grand Forks, and was also at one time a member of the board of
trustees of Hamline University at St. Paul. In many ways he contributed to educational
progress and his inlluence along many lines was at all times beneficial and resultant. In all
of his church work he had the assistance and encouragement of his devoted wife, whom he
wedded in Philadelphia, July 20, 1876, and who in her maidenhood was Miss Anna M. Wil-
liams, a native of that city.
In the field of philanthropy Mr. White was most active, but withal most modest, ever
endeavoring to follow the biblical injunction not to let the left hand know what the right
hand doeth. He never sought recognition of his charity or spoke of the good acts which he
performed, but it is well known that he and his wife went about doing good deeds and acts
of kindness and that there are many who have reason to bless and cherish his memory for his
timely assistance. He became one of the organizers of the Young Men's Christian Associa-
tion of Fargo and served on its board of trustees. For many years he was president of the Old
Settlers Association of North Dakota and for many years was associated with Colonel Louns-
berry in the work of the State Historical Society, of which he was a charter and life member
and a director. He was connected with the various Masonic bodies of Fargo, having attained
the thirty-second degree of the Scottish Kite, and in fact there has been no element of public
progress or improvement or of humanitarian work in Fargo that has not found in him an
important factor. Public honors would have been multiplied unto him had not his wish been
otherwise, for he shunned every phase of public preferment and modestly kept in the back-
ground, but the public recognized the worth of the man, ever regarding William II. White as
one of the foremost citizens of Fargo and of North Dakota. In his later years he and his
wife traveled extensively and it is said that there is not a country on the face of the globe
that he did not visit. At a meeting of the quarterly conference of the First Methodist Epis-
copal church subsequent to his death the following resolutions were adopted:
"A brother, counsellor and friend has gone to his reward. Whether in matters of church,
city or state, he was always a safe leader.
"Successful in business, his prosperity was never gained by the slightest im worthy act or
deed. Generous in the extreme, he sought to help where help was most needed. Probably the
hour never passed when the thought of aiding the poor and unfortunate did not possess his
soul.
"Naturally of a religious nature, his life developed equally in matters spiritual and
temporal.
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 7
"The good, brave wife who has walked by his side in adversity as well as prosperity, now
survives, possessed of the glad knowledge tliat it was hers to be the companion and adviser
of a brave and truly noble man.
"To him the church of his choice took first place as an institution for the promotion of
good.
"He was probably the oldest Methodist in Korth Dakota in point of continuous member-
ship. He was indeed the founder of Methodism in northern Dakota territory and the state
of North Dakota.
"For over forty years he was a member of the official board of this church and chairman
of its board of trustees. He gave his time lavishlj' to further the interests of Christ's king-
dom in our midst.
"His last conversation was in his office with our district superintendent, concerning the
interests of our local church.
"Therefore, as members of the official board of the First Methodist Episcopal church,
now assembled as a quarterly conference, we here record our appreciation of the high cliaraeter
and sterling worth of our departed brother, William H. White, and place these few feeble
words upon our records as a slight token of our love and unalloyed afl'ection for a worthy
brother this day gone to his home on high." In an editorial which appeared in the Daily
Courier-News it was said:
"A prince and a mighty man has gone down like a great tree suddenlj' felled by the wood-
man's axe, leaving a lonesome place against the sky.
"The title of Walt Whitman's famous poem rings in the ear as we think of this tall, clear
eyed, stanch man: 'Pioneers, oh Pioneers' — for the men who first carved the path for hunter
and for husbandman are fast passing away. These come first to mind, not onl}' because he was
one prominent among them, but because Mr. Wliite gave first place in his affections to those
hardy adventurers who were with him in the early days at 'the crossing,' and its vicinity.
They were creative spirits, and among them he was a chief.
"The business life of North Dakota felt his creative hand through all its plastic years, and
the network of his business interests interlaces a lai'ge territory, wherein he was respected
and honored. He lived too largely to be confined in business, and a great deal of his energy
and ability was expended in religious work. Superintendent of the first Sunday school in the
state, he remained a member of it until his death, and saw a large religious denomination
grow out of the first little 'class.' as the Methodists then called it, of which he was a member,
when Fargo was just beginning.
"To him religion was not a mere profession, for the first comment made by many upon
his life, was the significant statement: 'He was a just man.' His attorney who cared for his
large and vexatious interests in the days following Fargo's collapsed boom, states that his
habit was to bring the papers which required legal attention to him and give him the instruc-
tion: 'Do what is just; nothing else.' and that freely, when not required by the letter of the
law, Mr. AVhite did justice, and more. Lifelong associates apply the words of the ancient
prophet to him: he 'dealt justly, loved mercy (kindness) and walked humbly with his God.'
Every honor in the great Methodist denomination which is accessible to a layman was con-
ferred upon him by the volition of his fellow churchmen, and unsought upon his part, for he
was modest as well as capable.
"He was broader than to be a mere chvuchman. ^lis sympathies were so catholic that he
frequently mingled with other church gatherings than his own and enjoyed them, even those
frequently considered heterodox, and his expressions of religious conviction made in the times
when he laid aside his reserve and spoke of them, were generous and appreciative of the good
wherever found. This breadth of mind was found in his ordinary relations with his fellowmen,
wherein he differed. He held to principles tenaciously, but never allowed differences to sever
friendship.
"He lived largely and well, and was a fine type of the true manhood which is the founda-
tion of the commonwealth. It was fitting that he should pass without long, lingering illness
or pitiful weakness. His last words showed the tender solicitude always felt for the wife who
had walked by his side through the long, golden years, and whose terrible shock at his sudden
passing is the chief regret concerning the manner of it.
8 IIISTURV OF XORTH DAKOTA
".Mr. White lived largely, wrought strongly in business and social life; leaves a good
record behind him and will not be forgotten by the community in which he spent all of his
life, but his extreme youth."
Tlie following tributes were paid ilr. \Vhite at the time of his death.
Like the quick vanishing of a light, leaving impenetrable darkness; like gray clouds
obscuring a clear .sky; like glad joy converted into sadful sorrow, was the effect of the
startling announcement that the soul of our dear brother, William H. White, had suddenly
withdrawn from the earthly life to the eternal.
The ladies of the Pastor's Aid Society of the First Methodist Episcopal Cliurch, of Fargo,
North Dakota, would pay a last tribute of respect and appreciation to the memory of a
good and true man.
He was friend, adviser, brother. Every appeal for assistance met favorable response.
Intense interest in all plans \vas manifested. The fine compliment of being financially
responsible was frequently accorded us. We will miss his cheery presence, his courteous
kindness, his valuable counsel, his ready helpfulness.
His manifold beneficences are his enduring inonumiiit. Let us place thereon wreaths
woven from the blossoms of love and benevolence, wliii-h he so generously planted and whose
exhalations will be grateful and everlasting.
May his life be an example and inspiration in devotion and philanthropy. May we
keep the faith as he did, so that when our summons comes to join the innumerable caravan,
we may wrap the drapery of our couch about us and lie down to pleasant dreams.
To his wife our dear sister, we oU'er our consolation without reserve. We share her
grief. Our sympathies encircle her. With bowed heads we commend her to the Heavenly
Fathei-, Who will answer sometime, somewhere, all our questionings of why and wherefore.
Pastor's Aid Society.
Mrs. E. F. Moore (Secy.).
Fargo, North Dakota.
Sept. 12, 191C.
Sometimes in consiilering the born leaders of a country 1 am reminded of that great
wheel in a large factory through which power is distributed to the various machines, large
and small, assembled to do the tasks of that factory.
An examination of the wheel will show it to contain innumerable cogs, so arranged,
that in turning, they fit into the cogs of other wheels, whicli themselves are used in the
vast work of distributing power.
Into such wheels the master builder intends to place only the very best material. But
the jar, the necessary friction produced by constant motion, the loss of power occasioned
from other inaccurate wheels and machines, frequently render impossible the highest per-
fection of operation. Even in the master wheel, by reason of some latent and unknown
defect in itself, more often, perhaps, because of the necessary and constant contact with its
environment, is found an imperfect or broken cog, which render operation difficult, followed
by a necessarily heavy strain upon the perfect cogs to keep in motion the mighty factory
so dependent upon the larger wheel, for constant and perfect action.
■Judged, however, from results,— the only accurate measurement,— there is accorded to
the products of that factory the highest degree of perfection.
So in this great world of ours. Providence places human machines, not perfect, nor
yet fiee from error, into their respective spheres of action. To some He gives great ability
coupled witli large responsibilities; to others less power, but consequently with less expec-
tancy of return. The old illustration of what is given and what is required taken from
the parable of the talents, tells the story of God's demands made of the men an<l women,
with wliom He has peopled this great world in which we live.
Jfeasured by these standards, William H. White— in Northern Dakota Territory and
the State of North Dakota, was a master wheel,— a mighty leader in the development of
what is destined to become one of the greatest States (if this Union.
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 9
Fortunate indeed, that so early in the life of the Territory and State, this man of God
came to establish his home, he possessed the inspirational and educational instinct, and in all
he did, tempered his movements, keeping in mind the spiritual, intellectual and physical
development of the people, with whom he was destined to grow, increase and become a
leader.
He was a business man of the very highest type. Before going upon the bench, for
over fifteen years, I was honored by being his confidential legal adviser. It Was during the
earlier portions of that career, while the boom days were on in this country, we first met.
It was at that period when Rum was King, when he sat upon the throne of power on these
fertile prairies; when to speak in opposition to his unreasonable yet incessant demands,
often meant serious business complications and dire disaster; in a word, "the days that
tried men's souls," then it was that the sturdy Cliristian character of the man, whose
memory we now honor, sparkled with the greatest brilliancy.
Justice and righteousness were his watchwords. Often times, after the boom burst,
when fortunes were melting away like snow under the summer sun, Bro. White would stand
amid the wreck and ruin about him, while his small earthly belongings were being fast
depleted by the universal decline about him, and say to his counsellor, when advising con-
cerning obligations long since past due, "Give them time if necessary, take no penny not
absolutely mine, but above all you be a judge as well as a lawyer, and do justice between
us both." I remember upon one occasion he lost $8,000.00 because he would not do an act
which might be construed in a wrong light by a former benefactor and friend, when I
advised him that he was legally entitled to every dollar of that amount.
For such clients all lawyers ought daily to be thankful. When their number increases
there will be a corresponding decrease in what many call the "Crooked lawyers." Lawyers
rise, in the discharge of private and public duty, little above the general level of the capa-
bility and desires of the clients for whom they woik. The greater and nobler the client —
the better and the more conscientious the attorney.
But I must not dwell too long upon the business side of Bro. White's career, however
interesting and delightful it was, because in fact he was not only a successful business man
but also a religious leader in this great State of ours.
W'hile he was broad and liberal in his religious convictions, and had the warmest
respect for and gave liberally to aid other denominations, he was essentially a Methodist.
Indeed, I believe there is justly accorded to him, by every one, the position he so uniquely
filled, that of The Pioneer— the First Methodist of Northern Dakota Territory and the
State of North Dakota. Influenced in early life by the homes of such Methodists as Bishop
Simpson and Alpha J. Kynette, little wonder he sought to plant some of their Methodist
influence and inspiration to the virgin soil of this new Territory.
He was successful. This Conference tells the story. Upon your minutes appear the
tables which show in members and property the development of the seed thus early sown
by the hardy hand of the pioneers who peopled this State.
Like Daniel Webster, who in that famous speech in opposition to the admitting to pro-
bate of the Girard will in the Courts of Philadelphia, Bro. White took the ground — that
Christianity was in fact a part of the Common law of the land, and that the Clergy were
the representatives of that religion here below — that a strike at the Minister of the Gospel
such as was found in the will was a blow at the Gospel itself. No wonder then that in
the heart of Brother White was found a warm place for the ministry, not only of his own,
but of all Churches, those who were true heralds of the Christian religion he so devoutly
espoused.
The "William H. White Superannuate fund' which belongs to you, not only evidences
his financial wisdom but also bears testimony to his devotion to that great body of men
who have labored and served in this part of the moral vineyard.
Perhaps I ought to close with this brief description of what should be termed his
public life, but a true representation of a great career would be incomplete, did it fail to
point to what might be called his private life.
10 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
In the sacred precincts of the home and tlie church, he met as friend to friend all those
who crossed the threshold of either, with that manly interest and those kindly greetings
which could only emanate from the large and affectionate nature, he so richly possessed.
And here too, I am halted by those delicate relations which ought not to be exposed to
public view. At this place and at this moment I stand with uncovered head, bowed with
grief over the loss of a friend, whose companionship began over 35 years ago and con-
tinued unremittingly until his pure white soul winged its way to "that city not built with
hands eternal in the heavens." What blessed years of association. To this occasion, and
as it were beside his bier, I bring these few paltry words, attempting to do honor to his
memory, conscious of the poverty of language to express our real thought and lay them,
where, he had survived me, I know he would have said and laid the simple words which
tell of a profound respect and an ever abiding affection.
The home life of Brother White, fortunately presided over by one whose womanly
instinct was capable of thoroughly understanding the depths of his nature, was all that
could be desired. For health and other reasons Mr. and Mrs. White traveled far and wide.
They were thus enabled to see all countries of the globe. It would be interesting indeed to read
at length "The tale of the two travelers," as it could be developed by a description of their
journeys around the world. Suffice it to say, they would furnish a medium through which
could be contemplated the sources of the accumulated wisdom concerning world wide affairs,
with which he was so familiar.
Brother White was a keen observer of men and things. He possessed also a rare
literary discernment, which, aided by what he saw and heard made him a profound student
and lover of the best literature of the day. In his home library, in the daily companion-
ship of his books and his wife, he spent most of his spare moments. Thus it was that all
the resources, he so richly possessed were accumulated and apparently husbanded to aid
him in becoming a useful citizen.
It is of such a character we speak at this moment; for such a life we utter a tribute
of esteem; to such a religious leader, we add words of respect; for such a husband and
friend we pause to give merited praise. Methodism moui-ns this day the loss of a great
leader; t\u; State a princely citizen and the wife and friend a real companion — gone on a
little before — to prepare the way for those who will follow. As he would wish so we say
"Tliough the workmen fall the work goes on."
OLUF NELSON.
Oluf Nelson is conducting a blacksmith and repair .shop at Clifford and has been very
successful in that connection, building up a large and profitable patronage. His birth
occurred near Bergen, Norway, April 26, 1864. and he is a son of Nels and Helga (Oleson)
Nelson, the former of whom is still living in Norway, while the latter passed away in
that country.
Oluf Nelson, who is one of seven living children of a family of fifteen, was reared
and educated in Norway, where he remained until he was about twenty-three years of age.
He emigrated to America in 1887 and, making his way at once to the northwest, located ,
in Traill county, North Dakota. He learned the blacksmith's trade while in Norway and
after arriving here established a shop in Clifford. He does all kinds of blacksmithing and
his shop is well equipped for general repair work. He is a very skillful artisan and is well
patronized by the people of Clifford and the surrounding country. He not only does
general machine repairing but has specialized to some extent in automobile repairing. He
owns stock in the Farmers Elevator Company and in the Traill County Telephone Company
and is in very comfortable circumstances.
In 1902 Mr. Nelson was united in marriage to Miss Mary Erickson, also a native of
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 11
Norway, by whom lie had live children, Hilda, Xoimaii, Otto, Mabel and Olga. The wife
and mother passed away in 1911 and was laid to rest in the Norman cemetery.
Mr. Xelson endorses the principles of the republican party and is now serving as one
of the supervisors of Norman township. His religious faith is that of the Lutheran church
and its teachings guide his life. His success is doubly creditable in that it is due entirely to
his own efforts and although he has given the greater part of his time and attention to the
building up of his business interests he has found opportunity to cooperate with move-
ments seeking the general welfare and is recognized as a man of public spirit.
RUSH S. ADAMS.
Rush S. Adams, president of the First National Bank of Lisbon and president of the
Adams & Frees Company, a landholding company, ranks with the foremost business men
of his part of the state. He is the oldest bank president of southern North Dakota and his
activities along this and other lines have proven a potent element in advancing the material
progress of the section in which he lives. He was born near Union Grove, Kenosha county,
Wisconsin, on tlic 18th of November, 1854, a son of Homer and Philinda (Cadwell) Adams,
both of whom were natives of the state of New York, whence they removed with their
respective parents to Wisconsin in the year 1846. There they were subsequently married
and the father for many years followed farming in that locality but afterward retired
and took up his abode in Union Grove, where he passed away.
Rush S. Adams was a pupil in the district schools of his native county and afterward
attended the preparatory department of Beloit College. He next entered the employ of the
firm of J. Miller & Company, boot and shoe manufacturers of Racine, Wisconsin, in the
capacity of bookkeeper. In 1875 he became a member of the firm, with which he was actively
associated until 1883, when he sold his interest in the business and came to North Dakota,
settling in Lisbon, where, in company with B. M. Frees, of Chicago, and H. K. Adams, of
Racine, he organized the Ransom County Bank under the firm style of Adams & Frees. He
became president of the institution, with Mr. Frees as the vice president and H. K. Adams
as the cashier. In 1887 the bank was nationalized with the same officers and there was no
change in the personnel from 1883 until 1915. On the 1st of January of the latter year
H. K. Adams retired and his son, AV. S. Adams, succeeded him in the position of cashier. Mr.
Frees, who resides in San Diego, California, is still vice president of the bank, with Rush S.
Adams as the president and chief executive officer. For a third of a century he has now been
active in control of the institution and has made it one of the safe financial concerns of the
state, its business maintaining ever an even balance between conservatism and progressiveness.
In 1876 Mr. Adams was married to Miss Susan W. Sage, of Racine, Wisconsin, and to
them were born six children, of whom three are living: Sidney D., a prominent attorney,
who is practicing as a member of the firm of Rourke, Kvello & Adams in Lisbon; Gertrude L.,
the wife of Dr. John B. Kinne, of Aberdeen, Washington; and Marie, who is connected with
the Associated Charities of Chicago. Mrs. Adams died in New Orleans in December, 1911,
and in March, 1914, Mr. Adams was married to Miss Alma Whitman, of Boston, Massachusetts.
In his political views Mr. Adams is a republican and for six years he served as a member
of the state board of pardons, while for many years he has been treasurer of the State
Soldiers' Home. He was mayor of Lisbon for one year and served for several years as a
member of the board of education, of which for tw'o years he was president. He. has ever
maintained a most progressive attitude in public affairs, standing loyally for those forces
which are of greatest value to the community and the commonwealth at large. He belongs
to Sheyenne Valley Lodge, No. 12, F. & A. M.; Lisbon Chapter, No. 7, R. A. M.; and to Ivanhoe
Commandery, No. 8, K. T., and has made his life an expression of Masonic teachings and
purposes. He also belongs to Lisbon Lodge, No. 63, A. 0. U. W. He has been grand receiver
of the Grand Lodge of North Dakota since July, 1895. During this time he has paid out to
the widows and orphans over two million dollars. He is also chairman of the investment
committee, which has over a million and a half of invested funds. He and his wife are mem-
bers of the Presbyterian church and they are continually reaching out a helping hand to
12 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
those less fortunate. Tluir woik lias been a potent force for public benefit and for the
support of high standards and wherever they are known they are spoken of in terms of
highest respect and regard. Their genuine worth entitles thein to mention as representative
citi/.ens of this great state, tlieir work along many lines being of value in promoting the
material, intellectual, social, politiial and nioial progress of Ndrtli Dakota.
0. J. OLSOX.
0. .J. Olson, of Wahpeton, is now serving a third term as register of deeds of Richland
county, and is very enTicient in the discharge, of his duties in that capacity, and he is also
president of the Commercial Club. He is a native son of the county and was born on Sep-
tember 24. 1S85, of the marriage of Chris and Lena (Olson) Olson. The father was born in
Denmark and the mother in Mower county, Minnesota, and their marriage occurred in Adams,
that state. About 1882 they came to North Dakota and settled at Dwiglit, where the father
«as engaged in the grain, machinery and farm implement business for a number of years.
Having accumulated a competence, he is living retired in Galchutt. He is a republican in
politics and fraternally is a Woodman, while his religious faith is that of the Lutheran
church. To him and his wife were born seven children, namely: George, who is engaged in
the lumber business in Canada; O. J.; Mrs. Johnson, of Galchutt, whose husband is a general
merchant there; Clara, at home; Mrs. Sch>iltz, of Minot, this state, whose husband is man-
ager of a hardware store; Cora, who is a teacher and resides at home; and Clarence, also at
home. The paternal grandparents passed their entire lives in Denmark.
O. J. Olson received his education through attending the common schools and the Ked
River Valley University at Wahpeton, from which he was graduated in 1904. Thereafter ho
remained at home for a short time and then became a collector and salesman for the Henne-
pin Lumber Company, leaving their employ to accept a position as clerk in the office of register
of deeds. In 1907 he was appointed deputy and three years later was elected register of
deeds. His previous experience in the office well qualified him for the position and he has
made such an excellent record that he has been twice re-elected and is still serving in that
capacity. He is systematic, prompt and accurate and there has never been the slightest
question as to his integrity.
On the 29th of April, 1914, Mr. Olson was married to Jliss Susie Rettig, a native of
Wahpeton. Both are members of the Lutheran church, in the work of which they take a
commendable interest. He is active in the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and is now
trustee of the home fund board of the state. His political beliefs are in accord with the
principles of the republican party, which he supports loyally. He is president of the Com-
mercial Club and under his leadership that organization has accomplished much for the
civic and business expansion of the town and he hopes for still greater achievement.
HKNRY fflLDRETH.
Among the substantial citizens of Argusville is Henry llildreth, who became identified
with the agricultural development of Cass county in pioneer times and for a considerable
period carried on general farming. He afterward became connected with business affairs in
Argusville and at the present time is living retired, his labors having been crowned with a
measure of success that permits him to enjoy well earned rest. He was born in Wisconsin,
January 15, 1852. a son of Henry and Sarah 0. (Perkins) llildreth. both of whom were
natives of New York. Coming to the west in 1850, they settled on a farm in the Badger
state and there lived until called to the home beyond.
They had two children but Henry llildreth is the only member of the family now living.
He was reared and educated in Wisconsin, remaining in that state until he attained his
majority. In March, 1873, he went to Nebraska, but returned to Wisconsin in A\igust of the
same year. In 1878 he removed to Cass county, North Dakota, establishing his home in
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 13
Berlin township. He secured a claim and at once began to break the sod and till the fields,
residing thereon until 1883. His first dwelling was a sod house and he made other primitive
improvements, but in the year last mentioned he returned to Wisconsin, where he worked
in a lumber mill for three years and afterward farmed the old homestead for five years. In
1891 he again came to Xorth Dakota and settled upon his farm, which he occupied and
further improved until 1894. In that year he removed to Argusville, where he established
a store and also conducted a hotel, continuing in the business for four years. In 1913 he
became one of the organizers of the Argusville State Bank, of which he is yet one of the
directors, although at the present time he is practically retired from active business connec-
tions. He was also one of the organizers of the Argusville Farmers Elevator Company and
is now president of its board of directors, owning one-fifth of the stock of that company.
This was the second farmers' elevator in the state. In addition to this he and his wife still
own one hundred and sixty acres of land at Gardner, now included within the corporation
limits of that village.
Mr. Hildreth has been married twice. In 1879 he wedded Miss .Josephine Krom, a native of
New York and a daughter of Hiram and Rebecca (Depew) Krom. By this union there were
four children, as follows: Edna A. and Sarah B.. both of whom reside in Portland, Oregon;
Mary, who is the wife of Charles Abernathy and lives in Oregon; and Hiram G., who makes
his home at Argusville, North Dakota. The wife and mother died on the 4th of December,
1901, and her remains were interred in the Harwood cemetery. In 1904 Mr. Hildreth was
again married, his second union being with Miss Ella S. Buckland, a native of Wisconsin and
-a daughter of German and JMary Buckland, both of whom were born in Vermont. They
removed to Wisconsin in the year 1848 and in that state the father passed away, but the
•mother still survives at the age of eighty-two.
Mr. Hildreth votes with the republican party, which finds in bim a strong and stalwart
advocate. He served on the township board for two terras and has also been town assessor.
For twelve years he was a member of the school board and the cause of education found in
him a stalwart champion. His wife is a member of the Congregational church and both are
highly esteemed, enjoying the goodwill and confidence of friends and neighbors. Mr. Hildreth
deserves much credit for what he has accomplished, as he started out in life empty handed
and today is the possessor of a comfortable competence, which is the legitimate reward of
well directed energy and thrift.
CLARENCE R. BIERLY.
Clarence R. Bierly, president of the Minot Realty Company, has thus been engaged in
business since July, 1906, and is thoroughly acquainted with every phase of the work which
claims his attention and which is bringing to him substantial success because of capable
management, keen discrimination and unfaltering enterprise. They conduct a real estate and
loan business and their clientage has reached gratifying proportions.
Mr. Bierly was born at Williamsport, Pennsylvania, September 29, 1875, a son of
Willis R. and Sarah L. (Bosard) Bierly, who were also natives of the Keystone state, born
July 30, 1847, and July 28, 1853, respectively. The father was an attorney and newspaper
writer who continued his residence in the east until 1883, when he removed to Texas. There
he continued in the practice of law and acted as attorney for a number of companies in
northwestern Texas. He left that state to take the position of managing editor of the
Orand Forks Herald, arriving in North Dakota on the 1st of January, 1884. For twelve years
he maintained his abode there but in 1896 returned to Pennsylvania and since that time has
been engaged in revising and codifying the laws of that state, making his home at Rebers-
burg. Ih the year 1906 Sirs. Bierly went to Canada and there passed away in February, 1907.
Clarence R. Bierly is the eldest of a family of seven children. He attended school in
Crand Forks. North Dakota, and was graduated from the high school with the class of 1893.
When his father left North Dakota in 1896, because of impaired health, he engaged in the
fire insurance business at Grand Forks in connection with W. A. Gordon for eighteen months
and on the expiration of that period accepted the position of bookkeeper with the Barnes
1^ HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
Grocery Company. After a short timo, liowevor. lie was offered a position at Larimore,
Xortli Dakota, in the land and loan business with J. B. Streeter, Jr., Company, one of the
largest companies operating in land in the state at that time. He occupied a position of
responsibility and trust with Mr. Streeter for about eight years and then resigned to enter
business in Minot. In July, 1906, he organized tlie Minot Realty Company, at which time he
became president and so continues. This is a close corporation capitalized for twenty
thousand dollars, owning and operating about eighteen hundred acres of land besides con-
ducting a general loan and insurance business. Mr. Bierly devotes his entire time to the
realty company and the operation of its properties and is thoroughly acquainted with
conditions of the real estate market, knows the property that is for sale and is an expert
valuator. Another point in his business career worthy of mention is that during the first
three months of the World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago in 1893 he was engaged in
decorative art work in connection with the North Dakota and other state exhibits.
On the 15th of July, 190.3, occurred the marriage of Mr. Bierly and Mrs. Edith R. Mory,
a daughter of Albert C. and Sarah E. (McNeill) .Johnson. She was born in Jloulton, Iowa!
and her parents were also natives of that state. They removed to Kansas and in 1893 came
to North Dakota, whence they made their way to California in 1901, their home being now
in Sonora, that state. Mrs. Bierly first married Edward R. Mory, who was a druggist of
Larimore, North Dakota. To Mr. and Mrs. Bierly have been born two children, namely:
Sydney H., whose birth occurred at Larimore, North Dakota, July 25, 1904; and Reed, born
in Minot, October 9, 1908.
In his political views Mr. Bierly is a democrat. He is a special assessment commissioner,
in which capacity he has acted for three years. The members of this commission are
appointed by the city commissioners, the city being under a commission government. When
he took charge of the work he organized a system similar to the one in use in Minneapolis,
whereby each piece of property has a complete record which can be digested at a glance.
This system, although expensive to install, will save the taxpayers a gi-eat deal of money
as the old system was so unwieldy that a great many assessments were overlooked. He is
ambitious, energetic and persistent, qualities which are indispensable elements in the attain-
ment of business prosperity. At the same time he is thoroughly reliable and trustworthy
and his integrity as well as his activity has placed him among the leading and substantial
business men of Minot.
JUDGE LEO J. PALDA.
Judge Leo J. Palda, who is engaged in the jiractice of law at Minot as the senior j.artner
in the firm of Palda & Aaker. and who has also served on the district bench, was born in
Cleveland, Ohio, March 4, 1873, his parents being Leo and Theresa (Sladky) Palda, both of
whom were natives of Bohemia Init were married in the new world. The father engaged in
newspaper work in early life and about the year 18fi.> crossed the Atlantic, establisliing his
home in the state of New York, where he engaged in the newspajier business. He was married
in New York and afterward continued connection with newspaper publication in New York,
Oiicago, Cleveland and in Cedar Rapids. Iowa, publishing Bohemian papers. Both he and his
wife spent their remaining days in Cedar Rapids and he was a man of wide influence among
people of his nationality. He never aspired to office, although he held some local positions
and was regarded as a valued citizen of the community in which he made his home.
Judge Palda, the only living child of Leo Palda, was reared in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where
he largely pursued his education, his public school course there, however, being supplemented
by study in the State University of Michigan at Ann Arbor. At the age of fifteen vears he
began dealing in cigars and newspapers at Cedar Rapids and continued activelv in tliat line
until he reached the age of eighteen years. He thi-n entered the Michigan University from
which he was graduated in .Tunc. 1893. He then engaged in law practice at Cedar Rapids,
where he remained for about a year, after which he removed to Elgin, Iowa, where he fol-
lowed his profession for about five years. In 1900 he arrived in North Dakota, settling at
Kenmare. Ward cmmty, where he continued for three years. On the expiration of that pe'riod
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 15
he removed to Minot, having been appointed to serve on the district bencli while practicing
at Kenmare. He remained upon the bench for two years, making a creditable record in
office. He then formed a partnership with John E. Burke, which association was main-
tained until 1908, when he became the senior member of the law firm of Palda & Aaker and
in that connection has since engaged in the general practice of law. He is recognized as a
man of pronounced ability in his chosen field. His efforts have been attended with success,
for he is a clear and logical reasoncr and his study of his cases is thorough and exhaustive.
He presents a situation with great clearness and the logic of his arguments is one of the
strong and abiding elements in his practice. He is also a landowner in North Dakota and
personally operates a part of his farm property.
In January, 1898, Judge Palda was married to Miss Mae G. Lyon, a native of Fayette
county, Iowa, and a daughter of Willis and Mary (Randall) Lyon, both of whom were born
in the eastern part of the United States. Willis Lyon, an agriculturist by occupation, died
almost immediately after the Civil war as the result of diseases contracted in service at the
front. He was a member of an Iowa regiment. Mr. and Mrs. Palda have two children,
namely: Charles H., born December 19, 1898; and Robert W., whose natal day was July 22,
1900.
Politically Judge Palda is a republican and aside from serving as district judge he has
filled various local offices, including that of mayor of Kenmare, being the first incumbent in
the position. Fraternally he is connected with the Masonic lodge at Minot, with the Elks
and with the Knights of Pythias, also the Ancient Order of United Workmen and the Modern
Woodmen of America. In the Elks organization he has held both local and state offices.
Through the steps of an orderly progression Judge Palda has steadily advanced and his
position is one which is accorded him by the consensus of public opinion in recognition of
Ills ability and his devotion to the highest standards of the profession.
HON. JOHN W. HANSEL.
Hon. John W. Hansel, president of Fargo College and an honored resident of Fargo, is
regarded as one of the able educators of North Dakota, holding to the highest standards
and ever recognizing the fact that physical, intellectual and moral progress go hand in hand.
A native of Peoria, Illinois, he was born March 6, 1853, a son of John W. and Mary A.
(Little) Hansel, who were natives of Ohio and were married in Newark, that state. The
father was a cabinetmaker by trade and at the time of the gold excitement in California
crossed the plains to that state in 1849 with a mule team. After spending three years in
the gold fields, where he met with moderate success, he returned by way of the Isthmus of
Panama to the middle west, settling in Peoria, Illinois, where for many years he was
engaged in the hardware business. Subsequently he turned his attention to the manufacture
of his own patents, for he possessed inventive genius and gave to the world several
valuable devices. He died in Indianapolis, Indiana, at the very venerable age of eighty-seven
years, while his wife passed away in Oak Park, Illinois, at the age of seventy-eight.
President John W. Hansel spent his youthful days in the home of his parents at Peoria,
where he acquired a public school education, after which he was variously employed, begin-
ning life's work in a machine shop as an engineer. Eventually he became associated with a
wholesale drug firm of Peoria and continued successfully in that business until 1883. In the
meantime he had become actively interested in the work of the Young Men's Christian
Association and in 1882 he accepted the position of general secretary of the association at
St. Joseph, Missouri, where he was instrumental in erecting the first association building
west of the Mississippi river, securing funds sufficient to make all payments upon this build-
ing, which was erected at a cost of one hundred thousand dollars. Mr. Hansel remained for
five years at St. Joseph and then went to Kansas Cit.y, where he remained for three years,
during which time he was instrumental in raising the funds and building the superstructure
of the Young Men's Cliristian Association building, already begun, the cost of which was
two hundred and ten thousand dollars. When he undertook the work conditions seemed
very unfavorable, for finances were at a low ebb and the outlook was discouraging, but he
IG HISTORY OF NORTPI DAKOTA
fired the workers with his own zeal and courage and the task was carried forward to
successful completion. Mr. Hansel afterward cooperated with some of the association
secretaries and laymen of the west in the organization of the Young Men's Christian Asso-
ciation College at Chicago with summer schools at Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. Upon the
completion of the organization of the college he was chosen its first general secretary and
later its president and continued in that capacity for fifteen years, when he was compelled
to resign on account of his healtli. He was instrumental in making the school one of the
two great institutions of its kind in the world. lie cooperated in organizing tlie Lake
Geneva Student Conference, wliieli has since become famous throughout the world. After
severing his connection with the Chicago school Ur. Hansel spent three years on the Gulf
coast and in September, 1913, accepted a call to the presidency of Fargo College, in which
capacity he is now serving. This institution offers one of the strongest four year liberal
arts courses in the northwest. It has had two Rhodes scholarships in the last four years
and all of the work of the college receives full credit recognition in the eastern universities.
In 1875 was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Hansel and Miss Christina Watson Mowat,
of Peoria, and they have become the parents of seven children, of whom three are living:
Agnes Mowat, tlie wife of Lloyd E. Harter, sales-manager for Hales & Edwards Grain Com-
pany of Chicago; :Mary Anna, the wife of Professor Fred C. Brown, of the Bradley Polytechnic
Institute of Peoria, Illinois; and John Washington, advertising manager in the middle west
for the Good Housekeeping magazine. Mr. and Mrs. Hansel are members of the Congrega-
tional church. She is a lady of broad and liberal culture and has been of great assistance to
her husband.
In his political views Mr. Hansel has always been an earnest republican and progressive
and his opinions are the result of close study of the questions of the day. He participated in
the progressive convention which nominated Theodore Roosevelt in 1912. One of the Fargo
papers said of him: "Mr. Hansel's services to Fargo College already command the gratitude
of every friend of the institution and of education. He has laid the foundation for a sound
business procedure adequate to the large growth and coming needs; he has gone far to
correct the prejudices that have handicapped the college hitherto; he has helped largely in
freeing the college from a burden of debt; he has won a sympathetic hearing out of the
state; he has won the confidence of us all by his candor, his kindly manner, his business-like
methods and by his large faith and optimism."
ARTHUR M. THOMPSON'.
Arthur M. Thompson, member of the state legislature for the third term and a prominent
member of the North Dakota bar, practicing at Minot, is leaving the impress of his individu-
ality upon the history of the state both as a lawyer and law maker. He was born in
Chicago, Illinois, December 11, 1877, a son of Charles and Antoinette (Sakrison) Thompson,
both of whom were natives of Norway, born in 1850 and 1852 respectively. Jn 1866 when a
youth of sixteen years. Charles Thompson crossed the Atlantic to the new world and settled
in Gjicago, where he became a builder and contractor. There he resided until 1879, when he
removed to Deer Park. Wisconsin, .ind continued in the same line of business. In early
manhood he wedded Antoinette Sakrison but both are now deceased. Mr. Thompson held
various local offices and was postmaster at Deer Park at the time of his death.
Arthur M. Thompson was the third in order of birth in a family of nine children. He
attended the Kiver Falls Normal School and the University of Minnesota, pursuing a two
years' course in special work in the academic department, and later entering vipon the study
of law, which he completed by graduation with the class of 1905. Long before this, however, he
had started out in the business world. At the age of sixteen years he secured a clerkship
in a store at Deer Park, with which he was connected for two and a half years. He after-
ward taught school for a year and later spent a year and a half as a clerk at Bruce,
Wisconsin. For three or four years he was upon the road during vacation periods while he
was pursuing his normal school and university courses. He completed his education in 1905
but practiced little before coming to Minot in the early part of 1906. Here he has since
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 17
remained in general practice and his ability has brought him prominently to the front in the
successful conduct of important litigation. The thoroughness and care with which he pre-
pares his cases is one of the strong elements in his growing success. His arguments are logical,
his reasoning sound and his deductions clear and forceful. In addition to his practice he has
business interests as the owner of considerable farm land both improved and unimproved in
this state and much of this he has now rented.
On the 4th of August, 1909, Mr. Thompson married Miss Eleanor R. McElfresli, who was
born in Emporia, Kansas, a daughter of Dr. John McElfresh, a native of Maryland, who
has now passed away. They have become parents of one son, named for her father, John
McElfresh, born August 19, 1913.
Fraternally Mr. Thompson is connected with the Elks lodge at Minot, in which he has
filled most of the offices, being next in line for exalted ruler. He holds membership with the
Modern Woodmen of America and the Knights of Pythias and he gives his political allegiance
to the republican party, being a recognized leader in its ranks in his part of the state.
Well fitted for leadership, he has been called upon for legislative duty and is now serving for
the third term as a member of the general assembh'. giving careful consideration to all
questions which come up for settlement.
GEORGE CARLSON.
George Carlson, cashier of the Farmers Bank at Gwinner, Sargent county, was born in
Renville county, Minnesota, September 17, 1887, a son of K. and Stina (Johnson) Carlson, who
were natives of Norway. The father was born in 1853 and became an early resident of
]\Iinnesota, whence he removed to North Dakota in 1888. In this state he secured a home-
stead claim situated on section 34, township 133, range 54, Sargent county, and thereon he
remained until 1903, at which time he removed to Milnor, where he is now living retired. He
was prominently connected with the agricultural development of his county for many years
and contributed in substantial measure to the advancement of the interests of that district.
His wife was bom in Norway in 1849 and both she and her husband came to the United
States with their respective parents when quite young, both families settling in Minnesota.
Mr. and Mrs. Carlson are now living in Milnor, Sargent county.
George Carlson is the youngest in a family of seven children, all of whom are yet living.
In the acquirement of his education he passed through consecutive grades in the public
schools and after completing the high school course at Milnor he devoted two years to study in
the North Dakota State Normal and Industrial School at Ellendale. Still later he pursued a
business course in Fargo and in 1907 he entered the First National Bank of Milnor, in which
institution he held the position of assistant cashier, remaining in that connection for four
years. During the succeeding four years, or until 1915, he was vice president of the First
National Bank of Milnor. In October, 1915, the Farmers Bank of Gwinner was organized
by Mr. Carlson and two business associates, C. Cooper and R. P. Johnson. Mr. Cooper is now
president of the bank, with Mr. Johnson as vice president and Mr. Carlson as cashier. The
company has recently erected a modern bank building thoroughly equipped, furnishing an
attractive home for the bank, which is being developed along substantial lines, displaying
nothing that partakes of frenzied finance but on the contrary carefully safeguarding the
interests of depositors as well as protecting the interests of the institution. Mr. Carlson not
only is active in managing and controlling the bank but is also the owner of farm property
in Sargent county, situated on section 38, township 133, range 56. He also has an attractive
residence in Gwinner which he has recently completed and which is supplied with all modern
conveniences and accessories.
In 1913 Mr. Carlson was united in marriage to Miss Liffie Intlehouse, who was born in
Richland county, this state, in 1888 and is a daughter of Peter and Guri Intlehouse, both of
whom were old residents of this state. The father was a butcher by trade, following that
pursuit until his death, which occurred in 1903. The mother is now making her home with
her daughter, Mrs. Carlson, who is the youngest of a family of five children, four of whom
survive. Mr. and Mrs. Carlson have one child, Wanda, born August 15, 1913. Both are
18 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
members of the Lutlieiaii tliurch and Mr. Carlson gives his political allegiance to the
republican party. Praiticiilly his entire life has been spent in Sargent county and with its
substantial development he has been closely associated, while in its business conditions he
has found the opportunity for the attainment of substantial success.
JAMES JOHNSON.
The life record of James Johnson is another proof of the fact that the accident of birth
does not determine the position of the individual in the business world but that success
depends upon utilization of opportunity. Laudable ambition has carried James Johnson
steadily forward and the position which he occupies in business circles of Minot and Ward
county is one of prominence and inlluence. He was born at Viele, Denmark, on the 1st of
Vlay, 1850, a son of James and Katherine (Paulson) Johnson, who were also natives of
Denmark, in which country they spent their entire lives, the father there following the occu-
pation of farming. Their son James attended school in his native counti-y, pursuing a
course in the Wibij Military School in Copenhagen. When a mere lad he worked for others
and has since been dependent upon his own resources. He went to sea, sailing for about
four years, and afterward served for two years in the Danish navy.
In 1873 he arrived in America, landing at New York. He had learned some English and
this aided him in a measure in making a start in the new world. He did not tarry on the
Atlantic coast but proceeded w^estward until he reached the Red river. He settled in Otter-
tail county, Minnesota, where he secured a claim and engaged in farming for nine years. He
then removed to Burlington, North Dakota. At that period the town of Minot was not in
existence. He engaged in the stock business to some extent and still resides upon his place,
continuing his interests in live stock. In the meantime he had furthered his education by
study in the State University of Minnesota, in which he pursued a law course, and for a
number of years he practiced law but at present he devotes his entire time to looking after
his individual interests. He is one of the stockholders and president of the First State Bank
at Burlington and the chairman of the board of directors of the Second National Bank at
Minot and has extensive ))ro])erty holdings in both towns. In fact his business interests are
important and in their control he displays sound judgment, keen enterprise and careful
management. Success is following his undertakings and his reliability and trustworthiness
have insured to him the confidence and goodwill of his fellow citizens.
In 1879 Mr. Johnson was united in marriage to Miss Ada J. Colton, a native of Colton,
St. Lawrence county, New York, and a daughter of Joseph L. and Diana (Robinson) Colton,
both of whom are deceased. The Coltons are of English lineage and the first of the name
who came from England to the new world was married' in Massachusetts in 1644. Mrs.
Johnson's father was a capitalist, real estate dealer, merchant and prominent business man.
In 1872 he removed westward to Minnesota and afterward came to North Dakota, where
he founded the city of Lisbon, there remaining for a number of years. He afterward removed
to Burlington, where both lie and his wife jiassed away. He was a soldier of the Civil war
and his wife served for three years as a nurse in the field hospital. Mr. Colton was a member
of the One Hundred and Forty-seventh New York Volunteer Regiment and participated in a
number of hotly contested engagements, being wounded in the third year of his service. He
was promoted to the rank of lieutenant and returned to his home with a most creditable
military record. To Mr. and Mrs. .Johnson have been born nine children, as follows: Arthur
De Forest, who is deceased; Carrie, the wife of Henry Kluver, who is cashier of the First
State Bank of Burlington; Harvey, an agriculturist residing in Burlington; Kflie, the wife of
Daniel Connan, of Sannix, who is engaged in business as a contractor; Rollie, who is engaged
in the lumber business at Burlington; George, who lives on the home ranch and is engaged
in the stock business; Grace, at home; Loyal, who is attending school and lives in Burlington;
and one who died in infancy.
Mr. Johnson is well known in Masonic circles, being a charter member of Minot Lodge,
F. & A. M., and having taken various higher degrees of Masonry. He has passed the chairs
in the difTcrent branches of the order and is a member of the Jlystic Shrine. His religious
JAMES JOHNSON
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA . 21
faith is that of the Lutheran church and his political belief that of the republican party.
In territorial days he served as clerk of the court for four years or until North Dakota was
admitted to statehood; for two years, 1889-1890, he was probate judge and in 1891 and 1892
he was state senator. At the end of that time he was elected state's attorney and held
that office for twelve years, during which period and afterward he was chairman of the
county republican central committee. Later he was chairman of the state central committee.
As a true American citizen should do, he keeps well informed on the questions and issues
of the day and has cooperated in many plans and projects to promote the welfare and good
of the community in which he lives. Wherever known he is held in the highest esteem and
most of all where he is best known. He deserves much credit for what he has accomplished,
for he has been dependent upon his own resources from early boyhood. At a youthful age
he recognized those things which are of real value and worth — industry, integrity, perse-
verance and sterling character — and his course has utilized these with the passing years,
making him a citizen of worth in the community in which he makes his home.
ANDREW KNUDSON.
Andrew Knudson, who is making an excellent record as cashier of the Galesburg State
Bank of Galesburg, Traill county, is a native of Norway and displays the excellent qualities
characteristic of his race. He was born on the 28th of March, 1860, a son of Knud and
Barbara Knudson, the former of whom died in that country, while the latter is still living
there. They were the parents of twelve children, of whom four are deceased.
Andrew Knudson attended the common schools in the acquirement of an education and
remained at home until he was nineteen years of age, when, having heard much concerning
the unusual opportunities offered to a young man in the United States, he emigrated to this
country. He first located in Wisconsin and remained there for about two years, working
during the summers and attending school during the winters, thus perfecting his knowledge of
English. At the end of that time he went to Minnesota, where he spent a year, but in
1881 he came to Traill county. North Dakota, where he has since lived. He homesteaded land
on section 20, Galesburg township, and concentrated his energies upon its improvement and
cultivation until 1902, when he removed to Galesburg. In 1901 he had aided in organizing the
Galesburg State Bank, of which he became a director. In 1905 the bank was sold and in 1907
he was made cashier, in which capacity he has since served. He has been judicious in the
management of its affairs, following a progressive policy tempered by a conservatism that
safeguards the interests of depositors and stockholders. He also finds time to supervise the
operation of his fine farm of four hundred acres, from which he derives a gratifying addition
to his income. He is also a stockholder in the Farmers Elevator and in the Traill County
Telephone Company, of which he is a director.
Mr. Knudson was married in 1906 to Miss Christine Agotness, who was born in Norway
but was brought to America when but four years of age. They both hold membership in the
Lutheran church and he is connected with the Sons of Norway. His political allegiance is
given to the republican party and he has served as assessor and as treasurer of Galesburg
township. He has been a resident of Traill county for thirty-five years and during that time
has done all in his power to further the advancement of the community along not only
material but also moral and civic lines.
HANS LARSON.
Hans Larson, who owns more than eight hundred acres of land and is now living retired
in Harwood township, Cass county, was one of the early settlers of the county and has from
his arrival in the state had firm faith in the greatness of its future although in the early days
such faith required unusual farsightedness as North Dakota was then a wild and forbidding
Vol. n— 2
22 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
region. He was born on the island of Laaland, Denmark, October 1, 1850, a son of Lars
Ili'ndrickson, who died when his son Hans was thirteen years of age.
Tlie latter continued to reside in his native country until he was seventeen years ohi,
when in company with liis mother he came to the United States. For two years they
resided at Oshkosh, Wisconsin, but at tlie end of that time he and his brother Henry
removed to Dakota territory in 1870. After spending one year at Fort Kandall, in what is
now South Dakota, tliey came to the present state of North Dakota. For a short time
they worked on the construction of tlie Northern Pacific Railroad but as expenses were
high and wages low they made their way to what is now Cass county and took upi
squatters' claims, on which Hans Larson filed in 1S73. He worked for the Northern Pacific for
thirteen months, thus meeting his living expenses. He first entered bis quarter section as a
preemption claim but as money was bard to obtain he commuted on eighty acres, which he
took up as a homestead. Later he filed on a quarter section under tlie timber act, which
he later commuted and scripped and paid for in subsequent years. He was a very practical
and eilicient farmer and his land yielded large crops, the sale of which netted him a good profit.
From time to time he invested in more land and now owns eight hundred and twenty-nine
acres. lie resided upon his original homestead for forty-three years, or until March, 1914,
when he retired from active work, renting his farm to others and taking up his abode on the
Nicholas A. Peterson farm, on section 14, Harwood township. He is financially independent
and the period of leisure which he is now enjoying is the deserved reward of many years
of well directed labor.
On the 11th of January, 1882, Mr. Larson was united in marriage to Miss Julia
Harrison, of Arena, Wisconsin, who, however, was born in Norway. Three of their six
children survive, namely: Josephine, the wife of M. C. Smith, of Cloverdale, British Columbia;
William H., at home; and Lulu M., the wife of George Ostby. of Cass county.
Mr. Larson is a stanch republican but has never taken a very active part in politics
although he has held a number of minor offices and has served as chairman of the township
board for ten years. Fraternally he belongs to Sliiloh Lodge, No. 1, A. F. & A. M.; Key-
stone Chapter, No. 5, R. A. M.; Auvergne Commandery, No. 2, K. T.; and El Zagal Temple,
A. A. 0. N. M. S. Mr. Larson is progressive and up-to-date and has been a factor not only
in the agricultural development of his county but also in its advancement along other lines.
He is widely and favorably known and those who have been intimately associated witli him
hold him in warm personal regard.
LAWRENCE P. VOISIN.
Lawrence P. Voisin, president of the Citizens State Bank of Lisbon, is a farsighted,
energetic business man and banker and in addition to his control of financial alVairs be is
serving as a member of the board of directors of the Equity Elevator Company, having
retired from the presidency after five year^' service, in June, 1915. He was born in
Bruce county, Ontario, Canada, on the 21st of February, 1873, his parents being Jacob and
Rose (Schuett) Voisin, the former of French descent, while the latter was of German lineage.
Both, however, were born in Canada, where the father followed the occuiiation of farming
up to the time of his death in 1885. His widow still occupies the old home place there.
Lawrence P. Voisin was educated in the common schools and in St. Jerome's College
at Berlin. Ontario, where he completed a three years' course, which he supplemented by a
course in the Northern Business College at Owen Sound, Ontario. On the completion of his
studies in that institution in 1891 he came west to seek a fortune and for two months
remained in Duluth, where he was employed in various w'ays. He then made Iiis way to
Sheldon, North Dakota, and in that locality secured employment as a farm hand, remaining
for seven years in the employ of one man. He married his employer's sister. Miss Mathilda
Kaspari, on the 5th of April, 1900. Two years before, or in the summer of 1898, he engaged
in the grain buying business in Venlo, North Dakota, and devoted the greater part of his
attention to that work for three years. In 1900 he purchased a farm of three hundred and
twenty acres six miles cast of Lisbon and turned his attention to general agricultural
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 23
pursuits, altliough he continued also to buy grain for another year. At the end of that
period he devoted his entire attention to the tilling of he soil. In the early days farming
in the state was an uncertain quantity and through several winters he was compelled to go to
the Minnesota woods and work in the lumber camps in order to keep the wolf from the
door, but his perseverance and determination at length brought to him their legitimate
reward. The tide turned in his favor and he acquired two sections of land and also an
equity in two other farms. At length he sold five quarter sections of his land and in the
spring of 1916 he left his farm and established his home in Lisbon. In the meantime, or
in 1910, he had purchased an interest in the Citizens State Bank of Lisbon and a year
later he was elected to the presidency of that institution, in which connection he has since
continued, directing its policy along well defined lines that lead to growth and success.
He is also a member of the board of directors of the Equity Elevator Company and proved
most capable during his five j'ears' presidency, from which he retired in June, 1915.
Mr. and Mrs. Voisin are members of tlie Catliolic cliurch and he belongs also to the
Knights of Columbus. He is regarded as one of the influential residents of Lisbon, belonging
to that class of men who have not only built up their own fortunes but at the same time
have been active in advancing the welfare and promoting the progress of the district in
which they live. He has stood shoulder to shoulder with those who have struggled on to
make this a habitable region, in which business activity is a synonym for material advance-
ment and prosperity.
HON. 0. H. DE S. IRGENS.
Hon. 0. H. de S. Irgons, county judge of Barnes county, residing at Valley City, was
born in Chicago, Illinois, June 8, 1855, a son of John S. Irgens, a native of Norway, who at
the age of seventeen years came to America, attracted by the fact that he had an uncle
living in New York. It was his intention to study civil engineering and then return to
Norway, where tlie family is an old and prominent one, having records which date back in
an unbroken line to 1657. Previous to the fatlier his ancestors had been representatives of
the professions, being clergymen, doctors, etc. The grandfather was graduated as a
theological student but did not follow the ministry, becoming a mining engineer and
manager. In the late '50s the father removed to St. Ansgar, Iowa, where he remained for a
year and then journeyed by team to Minnesota. He secured a claim in Adams. Mower
county, where he remained until the early '70s, devoting his attention to the development and
cultivation of his farm. He was then elected' county treasurer, which position he filled for
a number of years, and he was also elected to represent his district in the state legislature,
while still higher honors came to him in his election as secretary of state. He retired from
office on the 1st of .January, 1879, and then removed to a claim which he had entered in the
fall of 1878 two miles southwest' of '^''alley City. Several years later he sold his farm
and removed to Norfolk, Virginia, where he spent five years engaged in farming. Returning
to North Dakota, he settled west of Ellendale, where he and his sons engaged in stock
raising for five years, and on the expiration of that period he sold out and went to Valley
City, where for four years he acted as deputy county treasurer. On his retirement from
office he established his home at San Diego, California, where he remained until his death
in 1902. His widow still enjoys good health a^t the age of eighty-nine years. In his youth
the father had been liberally educated in both German and Norwegian by private tutors and
was a man of marked ability, possessing splendid natural gifts which he used to excellent
advantage, not only for the benefit of his own interests but also for the state.
Judge Irgens, the eldest of the family of four sons and a daughter, acquired his early
education in the primitive schools of Mower county, Minnesota, where in pioneer days a
teacher would give instruction to the children of the neighborhood in one of the liomes of
the locality. Later a log schoolhouse was built and after mastering the preliminary
branches of learning under such conditions .Tudge Irgens attended the public schools of
Austin, Minnesota, where he passed through consecutive grades until he completed a high
school course, wlien lie returned to the farm. At the age of nineteen years he went to
24 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
Lyic, Minnesota, where he was employed iu a general store for four years, and in November,
1878, he became a clerk in the store of J. S. Weiser, a pioneer merchant of Valley City, with
wliom he remained for two years. He was next employed by W. F. Jones, a lumber merchant,
and after two years spent in that connection he was appointed deputy county treasurer
under C. A. Uenson. and occupied the office for four years, when he became the candidate
for and was elected county treasurer, in which oHice he was continue<l by reelection for
foiu- years, making an excellent record by the prompt and cai)able manner in which he dis-
charged his duties. He and his brother, Lewis C. Irgens, then bought ovit a drug business,
which they conducted for ten years, meeting with fair success. The brother, however, took
up tlie study of dentistry and after winning his degi-ee removed to Oakland, California.
Judge Irgens continued to conduct the drug store for two years thereafter and then sold
out, turning his attention to the abstract business, also conducting a general store at
Roger, Barnes county. In the fall of in04 he was elected county judge and so fair and
impartial were liis decisions wliile on the bench that lie has been reelected at each biennial
electi(m since that time, so that lie has already been upon the bench for twelve years, while
his present term will continue until 1917. Since liis first election there lias been no
contest for the position, which has come to him by acclamation.
On the 18tli of .lanuary, 1878, Judge Irgens was married to Miss Annie M. Wilson,
of Blooming Prairie, Minnesota, a daughter of M. 0. Wilson, and their children are: Lillian
Mabel, now the wife of G. H. Getchell; Henrietta A., who is a clerk in the bank at Williston,
North Dakota: Clara Belle, the wife of T. Piatt Williams, of Pocatellii, Idaho: Flora F., at
home: and Kdwin A. R.. also under the parental roof.
The parents are members of All Saints Kpiscopal church. ,Iudge Irgens' record is
certainly one of which he has every reason to be proud, as public opinion has placed its stamp
of approval upon his record at seven different elections. In politics he is a republican. He is
a member of the Masonic order, having taken the blue lodge, chapter and commandery
degrees, and he is also a member of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine. He is recorder in the
commandery and secretary of the chapter and blue lodge. He is also a member of the
Independent Order of Odd Fellows and has held some offices in this society. Abraham Lincoln
said: "You can fool some of the people all of the time and all of the people some of the
time, but you can't fool all of the people all of the time," and the career of Judge Irgens
with his six reelections indicates clearly that his course has justified public confidence and
that he has stood for the highest standards of law and order, not forgetting that the
purpose of the law is not only to protect the law-abiding citizen but to reclaim the erring
one as well as to punish him, and thus he always tempers justice with mercy, making a
strong appeal to the best instincts of the individual.
PETER MADISON.
Peter Madison, wiio is residing on section 22, Harwood township, has gained a gratifying
measure of success as a farmer. He wiis born in Sweden on the 22d of May, 1850, a son of
Mr. and Mrs. Matthias Madison, but his mother died when he was an infant, and he has
no recollection of her. In 1873 he came to the United States as he had heard much con-
cerning the unusually good opportunities which this country offers to an energetic and
industrious young man. He located in Diiluth. Minnesota, where he worked on lake boats
for a time and later was emploj-ed at ofT-bearing for brick and stone masons. In 1874,
however, he came to Dakota territory, settling at Fargo, and for seven years he was
employed there at plastering and building. He then turned his attention to farming and
worked for S. V. Hoag for one year, after which he took up as a homestead the farm on
which he still lives. Subsequently he bought eighty acres of land and liis holdings now
total two hundred and forty acres, all of which is well improved. Through the intervening
years he has worked diligently and as he has followed up-to-date methods and has managed
his affair.i well his resources have constantly increased. He owns stock in the Fartners
Elevator Company and in the Independent Harvester Company.
In 1881 ilr. Madison was united in marriage to Miss Mary ilarguerite Peterson, also a
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA _ 25
native of Sweden, t^-Iio came to this country in 1880. They have become the parents of
eight children: Albin, a rancher of Montana; Nellie, the wife of A. T. Ostrom, also a resident
of that state; Emil and Ralph, at home; Lillian, who is employed by the Ford Motor Com-
pany at Fargo; and Estelle, Myrtle and Walter, all at home.
Mr. Madison is an adherent of the republican party and for several years served as a
member of the school board. Both he and his wife are affiliated with the Swedish Baptist
church and in their religious faith is found the guiding force of their lives. When
Mr. Madison came to the United States he was without money, but he possessed ambition,
enterprise and sound judgment and the exercise of these qualities has enabled him to gain
a gratifying measure of success.
FRANIC W. ROACH.
Frank W. Roach, vice president of the Second National Bank of Minot. is one of the
coterie of enterprising and substantial men who are officers of the bank and have made it
one of the strong moneyed institutions of that part of the state. He was born at Castle
Rock, Minnesota, March 19, 1871, a son of Joseph and Eleanor S. (Clague) Roach, repre-
sented elsewhere in this work.
Frank W. Roach attended the public schools of Northfield, Minnesota, and afterward
continued his education in the Shattuck Military Academy at Faribault, Minnesota. When
twenty years of age he engaged in the grain business at Castle Rock and there remained
for two years, on the expiration of which period he removed to Minot, where for three years
he was an active representative of the grain trade. He then became associated with his
father in the live stock business, in which he continued until 1908, when he entered the
Second National Bank as teller. He has since concentrated his energies upon the banking
business and in .January, 1914, was elected vice president and a director, in which capacities
he is now serving. He is a man of marked business ability and enterprise and in addition
to his other interests is connected with the Denbigh Brick Company, of Denbigh, North
Dakota, as a director and is also the owner of considerable land in this state.
On the 19th of February, 1907, Mr. Roach was married to Miss Florence E. Waggoner,
who was bom at Dubuque, Iowa, a daughter of Henry H. and Eleanor (Forney) Waggoner.
Her father was born in the east and following his removal to the west engaged in farming
and merchandising and in the undertaking business. Both he and his wife have now
passed away. Mr. and Mrs. Roach have become the parents of a son, Frank Waggoner, who
was born in August, 1911.
Fraternally Mr. Roach is well known as a representative of Masonry. He belongs to
the lodge at Minot, also to the chapter and commandery there, and to the Mystic Shrine at
Grand Forks. His fraternal connections extend to the Elks and the Knights of Pythias lodges
of Minot. His religious faith is that of the Episcopal church and his political belief that of
the republican party, but he does not desire nor seek office, as he has ever felt the pursuits
of private life in themselves abundantly worthy of his best efforts. Concentration of
purpose, close application and indefatigable energy have been the salient features in his
growing success, enabling him to advance from point to point in his business career until he
is now numbered among the substantial citizens of Minot.
AUGUST BERGMAN.
August Bergman, of Wahpeton, who has made such an excellent record as clerk of the
courts that he Las been three times reelected to that office, in which he is now serving, was
born on the 31st of December, 1874. His parents, Herman and Anna (HoefTken) Bergman,
were both natives of Germany, the former born in 1831 and the latter in 1836. The paternal
grandfather died when his son Herman was but a small boy, but the maternal grandfather,
Gerhard Hoeffken. also a native of Germany, came to the United States and located at
26 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
Norwood, Minnesota, wlicie lie engaged in fiuniing. Tlic parents of our subject were
married in Germany and in tlie same month emigrated to the United States, making their
way to Norwood, Minnesota, wliere tliey lived until called to their final rest. The father
homesteaded land, which he farmed for many 'years, but eventually, having accumulated a
competence, he retired. In early manhood he voted the republican ticket, but later became a
democrat. His religious faith was that of the Evangelical chuich. When he came to this
country he had no capital, but his energy and sound judgment enabled him to win success,
lie passed away in 1911 and was suiVived by his wife for but a year. They were the
parents of eight children: Herman, who conducts a lumberyard in Kulm, North Dakota;
Gerhard, a grain buyer at Hankinson, North Dakota; Henry, who is a flour, feed and grain
buyer at Norwood, Minnesota; Fred, who is foreman in a linseed oil mill of Minneapolis;
"William, a truck farmer living near Minneapolis; Jacob, of Glencoe, Minnesota, who is now
serving as county treasurer; Lizzie, the wife of Peter Plankers, who is foreman in the
Ornamental Iron Works at Minneapolis; and August.
The last named was reared at home and attended the public schools of Norwood and
■(ilencoe, Jlinnesota. During the summer uuinths he worked upon the home farm and after
leaving school continued to follow agric\iltural pursuits until he was sixteen years of age,
when he removed to Stiles, North Dakota, and found employment as clerk in a store. He
remained connected with mercantile pursuits for many years, but in 1910 was elected
clerk of the courts, in which office he is still serving by reelection. He is systematic
and accurate in his work and his record is one of which he has just cause to be proud.
On the 23d of November, 1894, Mr. Bergman was united in maniage to Miss Mary
.Tereszek, a native of Winona, Minnesota, by whom he has two children, William Kdward
and Lillian Anna, both of whom are teaching.
Mr. Bergman holds membership in the Catholic church and in the Woodmen of the
World and in Fergus Falls Lodge, No. 1093, B. P. 0. E., of Fergus Falls. Ho is an
adherent of the democratic party and since becoming of age has taken" an active part
in politics. He is widely known and highly respected throughout the county.
ALEXANDER McDONALD.
Ah'.xander McDonald was connected with agricultural interests in Cass county for a
considerable period but is now operating the oil station in the village of Gardner. He was
born in Canada, August 19, 1855, and is a son of John and Margaret (Sterling) McDonald,
both of whom were natives of Scotland. They came to Canada about 1823 and there lived
throughout their remaining days, rearing their family of eleven children, eight of whom
survive.
Alexander McDonald spent his ynutliful days in his native country and is indebted to
the public school system for the educational opportunities which he enjoyed. He remained in
Canada to the age of twenty-four years and in 18T9 made his way from that country to
North Dakota, at which time he took up his abode upon the farm in Cass county that h"
still owns, comprising three hundred and twenty acres of land on section 10, Gardner town-
ship. This was then a pioneer region and there was little evidence that the work of iniprove-
ment and progress had been begun. With characteristic energy he began to till the soil and
develop his fields and as time passed he added many improvements to the property, which
he converted into a productive and valuable farm. Year after year he carried on the task
of plowing, planting and harvesting and gathered rich crops, but at length he put aside the
work of the field and removed to Gardner, where for one year he engaged in merchandising.
.•\t the end of that time he took the oil station which ho has since operated and has built
up a good b\isiness in this connection.
In 1SS3 Mr. McDonald was united in marriage to Miss Kate Curry, a native of Canada
and a daughter of John and Margaret Curry. To them have been born two children, namely:
William .J., who lives on the homestead place; and Margaret May, who is still with her
parents.
Mr. McDonald is a republican in his political views and that he is a loyal, faithful and
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 27
capable officer is indicated in the fact tliat he has served as supervisor for twenty years.
He has also been a member of the school board and is a warm friend of the cause of education.
He belongs to the Yeomen lodge and the Ancient Order of United Workmen, and in both has
filled all of the chairs. He has never had occasion to regret leaving his native country and
seeking the opportunities offered in the growing northwest, for here he found good business
chances and in their utilization has worked his way steadily upward.
EDWARD S. PERSON.
The financial interests which center at Minot are carefully guarded by men who
recognize their responsibilities and are well qualified for the discharge of their duties.
Amojig this number is Edward S. Person, the president of the Union National Bank and
as its executive head he is directing its policy so as to most carefully safeguard the interests
of depositors and at the same time promote the success of the institution. A native of
Minnesota, he was born at Zumbrota, March 7, 1873, his parents being George and Mary
(Boyles) Person. The father's birth occurred in the state of Vermont, December B, 1833,
and the mother was born in Maine, March 6, 1S36. In early manhood Mr. Person engaged
in the hardware business and devoted the greater part of his after life to that trade. In
1857 he became a resident of Minnesota, which was then a frontier state. In the spring
of that year the town of Zumbrota started and he cast in his lot with its first settlers,
<;ontinuing his residence there until his death, which occurred in the year 1907. Mrs. Person
passed away in Minot November 30, 1915, and was interred in Zumbrota cemetery.
Edward S. Person, the second in order of birth in a family of three children, pursued
his education in the public schools of Zumbrota and when he reached the age of eighteen
years started out in the banking business as a clerk, securing a position in October, 1890,
in the old Bank of Zumbrota, with which he was connected for three years. He was after-
ward elected assistant cashier of the First State Bank of Zumbrota and in 1900 was advanced
to the position of cashier, continuing in that position until January, 1907. At that date
he arrived in Minot and accepted the position of cashier in the Union National Bank, which
position he filled for two years, or until 1009, when he was chosen vice president of the
institution. Later he was elected to the presidency and has since continued in that
capacity. During the nine years of his connection with this bank his labors have been an
element in its growing success and in the establisliment of its well deserved reputation as
one of the substantial and reliable moneyed institutions of the state. Mr. Person also
owns considerable land in North Dakota and is operating a farm near Minot, on which
he resides through the summer months. He is there engaged in breeding registered
Belgian horses and Guernsey cattle, keeping a number of pure bred stock, owning at the
present time the champion cow of the state, Lura Bettina, which produced six hundred
and twenty-three pounds of butter fat in 1914 by the official test as put forth by the
Agricultural College of North Dakota. The following year she made the remarkable
record of fourteen thousand, two and two-hundredths pounds of milk and seven hundred and
thirty-nine and fifty-eight hundredths pounds of butter fat.
On the 2d of April. 1903, Mr. Person was married to Miss Stella H. Holland, who was
born on a farm near Zumbrota, a daughter- of Stanford and Julia (Allen) Holland, who
were also early settlers of Minnesota, natives of New York and New Hampshire respec-
tively. The father was a farmer by occupation, but at the time of the Civil war put
aside all personal interests and considerations to join the army, becoming a private in the
Seventh Minnesota Volunteer Regiment. He returned home uninjured and Iiis remaining
days were spent at Zumbrota. His widow still survives and is now living at Long Prairie,
Minnesota. Mr. and Mrs. Person have one child, Elizabeth Stella, born September 30, 1911.
Mr. Person is a prominent representative of the Masonic fraternity. He is a past
master of his lodge, is the present eminent commander of the Knights Templar commandery
at Minot and is a member of Kem Temple, A. A. 0. N. M. S., at Grand Forks. He also has
an interesting military chapter in his life record. In November, 1887, he enlisted in the
National Guard of Minnesota as a member of Company D of the Third Regiment and
28 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
was advanced through various grades and was elected captain in 1893. Five years after-
ward he was promoted to the rank of major. In 1898 lie was mustered into the United
States service as a major of tlie Fourteentli Minnesota Infantry during the Spanish-
American war, being stationed at Cliiclianiauga, Georgia, and at Knoxville, Tennessee,
until mustered out in November of tlio same year. In 1907 when he moved to North Dakota
lie retired from the Minnesota National Guard, but is still on the list of its retired
officers. It was in August, 1908. that lie enlisted as a private of Company D of the First
North Dakota Regiment, was elected captain of the company in February, 1909, and was
transferred to the supernumerary list in 1912. In his political views Mr. Person has
always been a republican, believing that the adoption of the principles of that party
Avould insure safety and permanency in public affairs. He was the first president of the
Minot Association of Commerce and is now a director thereof. No duty or obligation
resting upon him has been neglected in the slightest degree and whether in public service
or in private life ho stands for all that is most worth while in his city and state.
NEWTON K. HUBBARD.
It is not difficult to speak of the late Newton K. Hubbard, of Fargo, for his life and
his character were as clear as the sunlight. No man came in contact with him but speedily
appreciated liini at his true worth and knew ho was a man who not only cherished a high
ideal of duty, but who lived up to it. He constantly labored for the right and from his
earliest youth devoted a large portion of his time to the service of others. He became a
pioneer settler of North Dakota and was closely associated with many movements which
led to the rapid and substantial growth and development of the state. He knew the experi-
ences of pioneer life and he lived to enjoy the fruits of settlement and. civilization when
North Dakota was transformed from a wilderness into a great commonwealth. His busi-
ness activities were put forth along various lines, his political work was effective and his
influence on the side of righteousness, justice and truth counted for much.
Mr. Hubbard was a native of Massachusetts, his birth having occurred at Agawam,
Hanipilcn county, on the 17th of December, 1839. He lacked but one day of reaching the
Psalmist's allotted span of three score years and ten when deatli claimed him on the IGth
of December, 1909. His parents were George J. and Marian (Adams) Hubbard, natives of
Massachusetts and Connecticut, respective!}'. It is said that his father, who was a pros-
perous and well-known farmer of Agawam, was noted for his business ability and his force
of character. He passed his entire life in New England and was a typical citizen of that
region. His grandfather. Captain George Hubbard, who was born in Middletown, Conecti-
cut, served with the Connecticut line in the Revolutionary war and thereby won his title.
After mastering the braiiclios of learning taught in the common schools of Massachusetts,
Newton K. Hubbard continued his education in the Providence Conference College of East
Greenwich, Rhode Island, and when his textbooks were put aside he went to Painesville, Ohio,
where he was teaching a district scluinl when the excitement in the Pcnnsjlvania oil fields
attracted his attention. He wrote to his father that he believed he might make profitable
investment in oil if the father would send him a thousand dollars, but before the check reached
him, as it did later, the Civil war had been inaugurated and Newton Hubbard felt that his first
duty was to his country. He therefore returned his father's check, stating at the same time
that on the 22d of April, 1861. he had responded to the call for troops to aid in the defense
of the Union and had cnli.sted at Painesville, Ohio, as a private, for three months' service
with Company D, Seventh Ohio Volunteer Infantry. On the 19th of .Tune following he reen-
listed for three years' service and was promoted to the rank of corporal. On the 26th of
August, 1861, he was captured at the battle of Cross Lanes, Virginia, together with two
oiriecrs and one hundred and fifteen enlisted men and for nine months and six days was
lield as a prisoner of war, being incarcerated for different periods at Richmond, Virginia,
New Orleans, Louisiana, and Salisbury, North Carolina, so that he had all of the hard and
bitter experiences of the southern prison pens. In January, 1863, he was exchanged and
rejoining bis regiment participated in the battles of Cliancellorsville, Virginia; Gettysburg,
NKWTON K. HUBBARD
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 31
Pennsylvania; Lookout Mountain, Tennessee; Missionary Ridge, Tennessee; Ringgold, Dalton,
Rocky Face Ridge and Dallas, Georgia.
At the close of his three years' term Mr. Hubbard was mustered out on the 6th of
July, 1864, with the rank of sergeant major of his regiment. He was appointed purveyor
of General Casements' brigade and thereafter remained in Raleigh, North Carolina, until
hostilities had ceased. He opened the first store in Raleigh after the Union troops were
sent to that city but a few months later sold out, for the sectional feeling was so great
as not only to render his stay unpleasant, but also to place his life in jeopardy.
Returning to Ohio, Mr. Hubbard opened a store in Geneva, which he profitably conducted
until the spring of 1870, when he disposed of his stock there and became identified with
the development of the northwest, proceeding first to Duluth, Minnesota. The Northern
Pacific Railroad was then being built and its construction meant the opening of the great
territory to the west. Mr. Hubbard possessed the pioneer spirit and felt that here was
the chance for wise and judicious investment. He went to Georgetown, Minnesota, accom-
panied by L. H. Tennj^ making the trip on horseback from St. Cloud. It had been inti-
mated that Georgetown would probably be the place where the Northern Pacific road would
cross the Red river. During the summer Mr. Hubbard received a dispatch from Pitt Cooke,
brother of Jay Cooke, that the Northern Pacific crossing of the Red river would be at the
mouth of Elm river, about twenty miles north of Georgetown. Therefore, with several
companions who had been waiting for this information, he went immediately to Elm river,
where he and the others took government claims and built log cabins. On returning to the
claim after a two months' trip in the east he found that it had been jumped. There was
a man occupying the cabin who demanded six hundred dollars before he would give posses-
sion. Mr. Hubbard replied that he could keep the claim, for in the meantime he had learned
that the railroad crossing would be moved twenty-seven miles south to what is now Moor-
head, Minnesota. Elm river was therefore abandoned and the prospectors made their way
to Moorhead. securing such land as they could in that vicinity.
Mr. Hubbard embraced every opportunity for business development that was offered
by the conditions of the west. In the spring of 1871 he opened a store in a tent at Oak
Lake, now Lake Park, Minnesota, and there with a stock of general merchandise he fur-
nished supplies to the Northern Pacific Railroad Company, having hauled his goods by ox
teams from St. Cloud. As the railroad was extended he followed the line and under the
firm name of Hubbard & Raymond successfully carried on business at Brainerd, Glyndon,
Moorhead and .Jamestown. After two years the partnership was dissolved, while Mr. Hub-
bard concentrated his interests at Moorhead. The Indian land located on the west side of the
river at Fargo was not open for actual settlement until 1873, at which time Mr. Hubbard
became purchaser of the first two business lots sold in the city and after disposing of his
store in Moorhead took up his permanent abode in Fargo, where he embarked in merchan-
dising, admitting his former bookkeeper, E. S. Tyler, to a partnership. From that time
forward he was a most active, prominent and influential factor in the upbuilding and develop-
ment of the city. In the spring of 1874 the firm purchased the furniture of the Headquar-
ters Hotel, which had been begun by the railroad company in 1871 and was completed the
following year. W. A. Carson was placed in charge of the hotel, which, however, was destroyed
by fire three months later. The failure of Jay Cooke in 1873 brought temporary embarrass-
ment to railroad operations in the west and caused business to be slack in many lines, but
after getting the concessions asked for, the firm of Hubbard & Tyler rebuilt the hotel in
sixty days at a cost of twenty thousand dollars. Its reopening was the occasion of great
festivity, and for years afterward it remained the social center of the town and surrounding
country.
Into other fields of activity Hubbard & Tyler extended their efforts. In the back part
of their store they conducted the banking business of the town and cared for the express
business, and when in 1878 capitalists from Racine, Wisconsin, visited Fargo, Mr. Hubbard
joined them in organizing and establishing the First National Bank, of which he became the
first vice president, remaining as one of its directors from the beginning until failing health
compelled him to withdraw twenty years later. It was characteristic of him that he never
hesitated to take a forward step when the way was open and he readily recognized and util-
ized opportunities that others passed heedlessly by. When financial resources permitted he
52 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
opened a store in Casselton in the early '80s and erected several brick business blocks there,
also becoming a director of the Cass County National Bank at Casselton, in which connec-
tion he continued until his demise. The town of Hunter sprang into existence as the result
of his enterprising spirit and business ability, for he bought and platted the townsite on
the Great Northern Railroad and he became the proprietor of the first stores in Blancliard
and Mayville, North Dakota, shipping the lumber for the buildings on the first flat car
that entered the towns. In 1881 he organized and became president of the Goose River
Bank of Mayville, a private banking institution, conducted under the name of N. K. Hub-
bard & Company. This was successfully conducted by him for ten yours, when ill health
forced him to sell out. The bank, however, remains as one of the substantial financial insti-
tutions of the state. In addition to all of liis other interests Mr. Hubbard became an investor
in lands, making extensive purchases of choice farm projjerty in Minneosta and North
Dakota. As the cultivation of wheat increased he entered the grain trade as a member Of
the firm of Hubbard & Gibbs, with headquarters at Fargo, and he also gave much time
to his real-estate operations, handling, however, only his own property. His keen sagacity
enabled him to recognize every advantage of the state and he became one of the organizers
and the first president of the Fargo vSouthern Railroad Company, which is now the brancli
line of the Chicago, Jlilwaukee & St. Paul Railroad, extending to the capital.
In 1876 Jlr. Hubbard was married to Miss Elizabeth Clayton, daughter of David B. and
Mary A. (Hitchcock) Clayton, of Painesville, Ohio. One daughter, Mabel Louise, was born
to them. She was married July 10, 1912, to Lieutenant Walter W. Lorshbough of tlie
United States navy.
In his political views Mr. Hubbard was long a stalwart republican and in 1894 was
prominently mentioned in connection with the candidacy for governor of his state, but his ill
health would not allow him to entertain the idea. He was a political leader but never an
office seeker. He fearlessly spoke his views and his position was never an equivocal one.
He was one of the four delegates from Dakotr. to the Chicago convention, which nominateu
Benjamin Harrison for tlie presidency, and for eight years he served on the board of direc-
tors of the State Asylum for the Insane. No one doubted his position on the temperance
question. He frankly and fearlessly advocated the cause and he stood for reform and improve-
ment in politics, in governmental affairs and in all those things which touch the general
interests of society and affect the welfare of mankind. Of him a contemporary biographer
Tias written: "In all his dealings Mr. Hubbard was noted for his fairness as well as for
his splendid business ability. He was a man of ripe judgment, strict integrity and displayed a
fearlessness in doing right that won for him the confidence of all his associates. • • •
He was a good soldier to the last, fighting a good fight, enduring his physical limitations
and almost constant pain and weariness with the same gixjd cheer, patience and heroic
optimism that was his chief characteristic." While he was at the head of large business
interests which he managed successfully, yet it was his rule to set apart some time each
day for the labors of love to which he was so devoted. His friends miss him, but the memory
of his sweet and beautiful life, of his sincerity and simplicity, will not be forgotten. He
laid down his task in the twilight of the day, when all that he had to do had been nobly,
beautifully and fully completed.
GEORGE R. COOK.
In every comnmnity and in every phase of activity there arc a few men who stand
■out as leaders and by general consent George R. Cook is one of the foremost business
men of Gardner and of Cass county. He owns a large general store, is president of the
Gardner State Rank and also holds title to valuable real estate. His birth occurred in
Portage, Wisconsin, on the 18th of .lannary, 1855, and he is a son of Sanuiel and Mary
(Williams) Cook, both natives of England. They were reared in tliat country and there
their marriage occurred, but in 1815 they emigrated to the United States and settled
in Portage, Wisconsin. Although the f.ather was a wagon maker by trade, after his re-
moval to this country he devoted his attention mainly to farming. In 1802 he removed
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 33
with his family to the vicinity of Rochester, Minnesota, where he lived until his demise
in December, 1914, at the venerable age of ninety-four years and six months. His wife
is still living and has also reached a notable old age, as she is now in her ninetieth year.
George R. Cook grew to manhood under the parental roof and received his education
in the district schools of Minnesota. In 1880, the year following his marriage, he came to
what is now the state of North Dakota and took up a homestead in Wiser township, Cass
county, on which he resided for twelve years. In December, 1892, he removed to Gardner,
where lie had conducted a butcher shop for some time previously, killing his meat on the
farm and marketing it in Gardner. Later he entered the drug business and some time
afterward, recognizing an excellent business opportunity, he added a stock of general mer-
chandise and has since conducted a general store. In 1909 his building was destroyed
by fire, but in the following jear he rebuilt and his store is not only one of the largest,
but also one of the most up-to-date and completely equipped one in Gardner township.
In 1908 he organized the State Bank of Gardner, of which he has continuously served as
president, and the gratifying growth of the business of the institution has been in a large
measure due to his ability and to the care which he has given to the conduct of the bank.
In addition to the important interests which have already been mentioned he owns the
townsite of Gardner, comprising eighty acres; Six hundred and forty acres of excellent
farm land in Gardner township; and a section of land in eastern Colorado. It is needless
to say that he is a man of independent means and an important factor in the business
and commercial life of his county.
Mr. Cook was married in Minnesota in 1S79 to Miss Evelyn Mitchell, and to them
were born seven children, six of whom survive: Claude John, who owns the garage and
blacksmith shop in Gardner; Erma Ann, the wife of John A. McDonald, of Wheatland,
Wyoming; Roy Gould, who is an owner of Porterfield & Company, an incorporated drug
company of Fargo; Maidie Blanch, the wife of Karl L. Hjort, an attorney of Hillsboro, this
state; Glenn Mitchell who is manager of his father's store and is also serving as post-
master of Gardner and who married Miss Beulah Buckholtz; and Tedd William, at home. •
Mr. Cook is a stalwart republican and is the present efficient clerk of the town board.
For seventeen years he was postmaster of Gardner and in all of his official capacities he
has manifested the same good judgment and enterprise which have characterized him in the
conduct of his private business affairs. His wife is a member of the Congregational church,
which Mr. Cook attends and to the support of which he contributes generousl}'. In attain-
ing success he has scrupulously lived up to high standards of commercial ethics, and his
integrity and probitj' have gained him the sincere respect of all who have come in contact
with him.
SOREN J. RASMUSSEN.
Soren J. Rasmussen has been manager of the loan department of the Second National
Bank of Minot since 1913 and his business affairs are wisely and capably conducted, con-
tributing much to the success of the institution, of which he is now a representative.
He was born in Bergen, Norway, January 13, 1866, a son of N. C. and Johanna (Johnson)
Rasmussen, who were likewise natives of the land of the midnight sun. In early man-
hood the father engaged in the hat business and continued active therein, occupying the
same building until a recent date, when he retired from business. He started upon his
biisiness career as a barefoot boy and through his own labor, diligence and determination
worked his way upward until he became one of the prosperous merchants and leading
business men of his city. He also held various local offices and contributed in large
measure to the material, municipal and political progress of his city.
Soren J. Rasmussen was the eldest of a family of fifteen children. He pursued his
education in the schools of Bergen, Norway, and after completing his course there studied
for a year in Hamburg, Germany. He was a youth of eighteen years, when in 1884 he
bade adieu to friends and native land and sailed for America, arriving in Chicago in 1884.
There he remained for a few months, after which he removed to River Falls, Wisconsin,
34 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
where lie was employed in a store for three years. In 1887 he returned to Norway on a
visit and when he again came to the new world he made his way to River Falls, where he
secured employment in a bank as bookkeeper and teller. Later he became director and
assistant cashier and there continued until 1898, when he removed to Starbuck, Minne-
sota, and became actively interested in the banking business there as president and
manager of the Bank of Starbuck. For six years he directed the policy of that bank, but
in 1904 sold out and purchased a controlling interest in the First National Bank at
Perhani. Minnesota. Not liking conditions there he afterwards disposed of his stock
and in 1905 removed to North Dakota, settling at Carpio, where he became president of
the First National Bank of that city. He there spent six years and he still retains his in-
terest in the business as a large stockholder and as president of the bank, but in the fall
of 1911 he removed to Minot and became connected with the Second National Bank, acting
as manager of its loan department since 1913. He has had extensive and varied experi-
ence in the banking business and is familiar with every phase thereof. He readily and
successfully solves intricate financial problems and his success is the result of a ready
discrimination between the essential and the non-essential. He has become an extensive
land owner of the state, but has his land rented, while he devotes his entire time to
his interests at Minot and Caq)io. •
On the 7th of April, 1895, Mr. Rasmusscn was united in marriage to Miss Lu Gibbs,
who was born at River Falls, Wisconsin, a daughter of Moses and Mary (McGow) Gibbs,
both now deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Rasmussen have become parents of two children: John,
who is attending the University of North Dakota; and Mary, who is a pupil in the high
school at Minot.
Fraternally Mr. Rasmussen is connected with the Masons, holding membership with the
lodge and the chapter at River Falls. He is also identified with the Modern Woodmen of
America. His political allegiance is given to the republican party but he has never sought
nor filled political offices. He has served, however, as president of the school board at
Carpio and that he is interested in the moral progress of the community is indicated in the
fact that he is a member of the Lutheran church. He has never regretted his determination
to seek his fortune in the new world, for in this country he found good business opportunities
and in their utilization has worked his way steadily upward. He early realized that in
America labor is king and that the enviable title which this king bestows is that of "self-
made man."
GUNDER HOWARD.
Gunder Howard has built up a large business as a dealer in agricultural implements in
Hillsboro and is also one of the most extensive landowners of the county, owning sixteen
hundred acres of fine land in North Dakota and Minnesota. He has not only been con-
nected with the agricultural and business interests of his locality, but he has also taken
an active part in public affairs, having represented his district in the state legislature.
Mr. Howard was born in Fyrisdal, Norway, on the 28th of August, 1855, a son of
Gunderson and Anna (Bcndikson) Howard. The father passed away in his native land
but the mother emigrated to the United States with her four sons in 1872. She located
on a preemption claim in Clay county, Minnesota, near Moorhead, where she remained
until 1882, when she came to Hillsboro. She is still living here and is held in the highest
esteem by all who knew her. Three of her sons are also living, namely: Gunder; Ole,
who is associated with our subject in business; and Jorgen, a resident of Kildeer, North
Dakota.
Gunder Howard received the greater part of his education in Norway, attending the
7)iiblic and high schools there. After coming to the United States he only attended
school for eighteen days. Soon after his arrival in Minnesota he squatted on a claim ad-
joining that of his mother and later proved up on that place as a preemption. Until 1875
he divided his time between farming and steamboating, being employed on boats running
between Moorhead and Winnipeg. In the fall of 1875 he entered the employ of Barrett &
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 35
Company of Fargo as a salesman of farm implements and remained witli them until the
tall of 1880. During that time he had become thoroughly familiar with the implement
business and decided to establish a store of his own. He came to Hillsboro and founded
liis present business, wliich has developed into one of the leading commercial enterprises
of Traill county. He carries a large stock of the best farm machinery made, understands
the points of superiority of each line liandled and is able to assist his patrons in choosing
the implements best fitted for their purposes. He recognizes tlie fact that real estate
is an excellent investment and that as the public land has been largely taken up realty
values are certain to increase and he has invested lieavily in land both in tliis state and in
Minnesota, owning in all sixteen lamdred acres.
In 1899 Mr. Howard was united in marriage to Miss Andrea Treet, wlio was born in
Norway but came to this country with her parents when five or six years of age, the
family home being established atvMoorhead, Minnesota. Mr. and Mrs. Howard have four
chiidren, Ellen, Ruth, Bernice and Gertrude.
Mr. Howard supports the republican party and is recognized as a leader in local
political circles. In 1897 and 1898 he represented his district in the state legislature and
his record as a member of that body was highly creditable to his insight into public affairs
and his devotion to the general good. He has also served in local offices, having been an
alderman of Hillsboro for several terms and having served as president of the school board
for years. He has had much to do in promoting the advancement of his community along
material and also along civic lines, and he holds the high esteem and the warm regard of
all who have been closely associated with him.
HENRY LARSON.
Henrj' Larson, residing on section 12, Gardner township, is one of those who since
pioneer times have contributed much toward the development of Cass county and who have
also gained individual success. He owns eight hundred acres of excellent land and is one
of the foremost citizens of his township. A native of Denmark, he was born on the 5th
of April, 1845, a son of Lars and Maren Cliristina (Hanson) Hendrickson. The father
died in Denmark in 1863, and five years later the mother came to the United States and
during the remainder of her life made her home with her two sons, Henry and Hans. She
passed away at tlie home of our subject in April. 1888, at the advanced age of eighty-
three years.
Henry Larson was educated in tlie public schools of Denmark and remained in that
country until 1866, when, as a young man of twenty-one years, he emigrated to the
United States, coming by way of Quebec and New York city. He continued his journey
westward and settled at Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Not long afterward he spent some time in
Kansas and Missouri, but returned to Oshkosh in the summer of 1867. He was variously
employed there, sailing on Lake Winnebago and working in the lime kilns, in the lumber
and shingle mills and in the gas works until May. 1870, wlien he came to Dakota territory.
From Sioux City, Iowa, he made his way on foot through Vermilion and Yankton to Fort
Randall. There they were rebuilding the fort and on his applying for work he was asked
if he could burn lime. He replied that he had just come from the lime kilns and was
immediately given work. Not having a kiln, he dug a hole in the ground and burned about
eight hundred barrels at a cost of sixty cents a barrel. The contractor who was furnishing
the lime brought it from Sioux City and had the contract at six dollars per barrel.
In the spring of 1871 Mr. Larson went to Yankton and purchased a team of mules,
with which he started for what is now North Dakota on the 6th of April, arriving on the
Sheyenne river in what is now Cass county in the latter part of that month. He took up a
squatter's claim, the present southwest quarter of section 10, Harwood township, and he
made his home upon that place for a number of years. The country was at that time
sparsely settled conditions of life were in all respects those of a frontier region. His
wife missed the comforts and conveniences of an older settled district and returned to
Oshkosh, where our subject, joined her in the fall of 1873. He remained there for about a
36 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
year, when he again came to North Dakota, driving through with a four horse team, and
not long afterward his family followed him. When the land was formally opened for
settlement ilr. Larson filed soldier's additional rights on his claim and in 1878 took up a tree
claim which is liis present home farm. In the following year he filed on a homestead,
upon which he lived until he had secured his iiatent thereto, when he removed to the tree
claim, which is nearer town and which alforded his children better school advantages. In
the intervening years he has bought three hundred and twenty acres and his present
holdings total eight hundred acres, a quarter section in Wiser township, a quarter section
in Harwood township and three-quarter sections in Gardner township. He also owns stock
in the Tarmers Cooperative Store of Gardner and in the Independent Harvester Company.
In 1868 Mr. Larson was united in marriage to Miss Ellen Connors, a native of Ireland,
and they became the parents of a son, Arthur, who is now farming in Clay county, Jlinne-
sota. The wife and mother died in 18!)5 and in 1897 Mr. Larson married Miss Carrie
Kishcrt. a native of Norway, and they have become the parents of six children, namely.
Frank, at home; Charles, who is farming his father's place in Harwood township; ami
Albert, Mary, William and John, at home.
Mr. Larson supports the measures and candidates of the republican |)aity at the
polls and for twenty-eiglit years served as a member of the board of township trustees,
his long retention i)roving the acceptability of his services. He is at present a member
of the Cass county drainage board. Fraternally he is identified with the American Yeomen,
and the Ancient Order of United Workmen. His religious faith is that of the Lutheran
cliurch, and he assisted in the building of the Norwegian Lutheran church in Wiser, which
he and his wife attend. He also gave generously to the building fund of the Congregational
church in Gardner, as he recognizes the fact that all denominations have the same aims
and work in behalf of the same cause.
WILLIS S. ADAMS.
Willis S. Adams, cashier of thct First National Bank of Lisbon, is well known to his
fellow townsmen, for his entire life has been passed in that city, his birth having there
occurred April 27, 1887. His parents are Henry K. and Frances (Sage) Adams. His
father was born on a farm near Union Grove, Wisconsin, and was the son of a physician,
who wlien Henry K. Adams was two years of age removed with his family to the city of
Union Grove, where the boy was reared and there remained until he entered Beloit
College, from which he was subsequently graduated. He accepted a position as book-
keeper in the Manufacturers Bank of Racine and through close attention to duty and
marked capability be worked his way upward to the position of assistant cashier. The
opportunities of the northwest attracted him and in 1883 he removed to Lisbon, North
Dakota, where, in company with his cousin, R. S. Adams, he organized the Ransom County
State Bank, which was nationalized about three years later under the name of the First
National Bank. From the beginning Henry K. Adams served as cashier until he retired in
1914 on account of ill health, which was brought on by an automobile accident which he
sustained in 1908, causing the loss of one of his legs. He now resides in Minneapolis and
has regained his health.
Willis S. Adams was educated in tlic Lisbon high school and in the University of
Chicago, from which he was gradiuited with the degree Ph. D. as a member of the class
of 1909. Following his graduation he was employed by the firm of Collier & Sons, pub-
lishers, for about eighteen months and then returned to Lisbon, where he entered the First
National Bank as assistant cashier, and after his father's retirement he was elected lashicr on
the 1st of .Tanuary. 1015, and is now acting in that capacity. He is a courteous and
obliging ollicial, carefully safegimrding the interests of the bank and at the same time
putting forth every possible effort to favor and assist its patrons.
In June, 1912, Mr. Adams was married to Miss Gladys Taylor, a daughter of A. B.
Taylor, assistant cashier of the Fargo National Bank, of Fargo, North Dakota. They have
two children, Bruce Kirk and Dean Taylor.
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 37
In politics Mr. Adams is a republican, stanch in liis support of the party principlea
but not an aspirant for office. He belongs to the Commercial Club and is a past master of
Slieyenne Valley Lodge, No. 13, F. & A. M., a member of Lisbon Chapter, No. 6, R. A. M.,
Ivanlioe Commandery, No. S. K. T., and El Zagal Temple, A. A. 0. N. M. S. He is likewise
a member of the State Panaletic Societj' and of the Sons of the American Revolution,
being eligible through the paternal line. He holds membership in the Presbyterian church,
while his wife is an Episcopalian. They are highly esteemed in Lisbon, where they reside,
and their own home is celebrated for the warm-hearted hospitality that is cordially
extended to their many friends.
JOHN J. LEE.
John J. Lee was formerly busily and actively engaged in general farming in Ward
county, but is now living retired in Jlinot. He was born in Norway near Stavanger,
December 35, 1874, his parents being John and Gertie (Sarhus) Lee, who were likewise
natives of Norway, where they yet retain there residence. The father has devoted his
life to the occupation of farming save for the period when he served in the regular army.
John J. Lee is the third in order of birth in a family of seven children. He attended
school in Norway and continued his education in Illinois and in the Valparaiso (Indiana)
Normal School, in which he remained through one term. He crossed the Atlantic to
America when but fifteen years of age, bringing with him a younger brother, then eleven
years of age. They made their way direct to Illinois, remaining for a time in Livingston
county, where John J. Lee secured employment as a farm hand. He could not speak
English then and he had little business experience or training to qualify him for the heavy
responsibilities which he assumed in providing for his own support and the care of his
brother. He continued a resident of Illinois until about 1897, when he removed to Texas,
settling west of Houston, where he operated a farm for a cousin through a period of two
years. On the expiration of that period he arrived in North Dakota and filed on a home-
stead until he proved upon the property. He afterward entered the employ of a lumber
company, with which lie remained until he was elected sheriff. In 1903 he built the
telephone line from Carpio to Mohall and has done much to further material progress and
upbuilding in this part of the state. He disposed of his business interests when
elected to the office of sheriff, at which time he became a resident of Minot. He occupied
that position for four years and made an excellent record in oflB.ce through his promptness,
efficiency and fidelity. Later he made a visit to Norway, spending the summer of 1909
in his native land. Upon his return he concentrated his attention and energies upon
farming and stock raising and continued the cultivation of eight hundred acres of land
about eight miles southwest of Minot until the year 1915, when he rented the property. In
the fall of 1909 he erected his present residence at No. 424 First street, Northeast, in
Minot and this he now occupies, enjoying the fruits of his former toil, which enables him
to rest from further labor and vet have all the comforts and some of the luxuries of
life.
On the 8th of April, 1905, Mr. Lee was united in marriage to Miss Clara Foss, who was
born in Traill county. North Dakota, a daughter of Olaf and Ellen (Asheim) Foss who were
natives of Norway. Coming to America in early life they settled near Ossian. Iowa, and about
1875 removed to North Dakota, casting in their lot with the early settlers of Traill county,
where they still occupy the old homestead farm. The father has held various local offices
in that locality. Mr. and Mrs Lee have five children: Julfa Gertrude, Olive Ellen, Rakkel,
John Clarence and Irvin Arthur.
Mr. Lee is a worthy member of the blue lodge and chapter of Masonry in Minot. He
also belongs to the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks and the Sons of Norway and is
the president of the Sons of Norway Building Assocation. He holds membership in the
Lutheran church and his political allegiance is given to the republican party. For four
years he served as sherifl" of Ward county, was elected a member of the state legislature
in 1911 and served for one term and is at present a member of the city street commission.
38 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
His activities liavo boon a iliiott force in iutlioiiii^i |)iil>lio progress aloii^ matriial, intellec-
tual, political, social and moral lines and his worth to his community is widely recognized by
all who know aught of his career.
KNUTK H. BRUNSDALE.
Knute H. Brunsdalc, one of the prominent figures in the development of North Dakota,
was born in Iowa county, Wisconsin, Jlay 1, 1855, and passed away January 16, 1899.
Although his life record was of comparatively short duration, covering a little less than
forty-four years, he accomplished much in the attainment of success and in his contribution
to the world's work. He was a son of Knute Halverson Brunsdale, who took his family
name from the place of his birtli, the latter syllal)le signifying "dalen" or dale and the first
syllable meaning ''brun" or well. The name, however, has been anglicized in its present
form. The father was born in Norway about 1820 and came to the United States in 1840.
About tlie same time Miss Gunild Olson Veglie crossed the Atlantic and they were subse-
quently married. Representatives of the Brunsdale family in the United States were of
sturdy stock and were fairly well educated and thrifty people. They gave their children all
the advantages of the common schools and as Knute H. Brunsdale was a studious youth he
made the most of his educational privileges. He was also a diligent student of the Bible
and acquired a broad fund of information on scriptural subjects. After completing liis com-
mon school studies he took a business course in a commercial college at La Crosse, Wisconsin,
and in 1882 he came to the territory of Dakota, acquiring land in Steele county. There he
began the work of reclaiming the land from the prairie and met all of the hardships and
privations incident to residence on the frontier, but his labors were wisely, carefully and
systematically directed and brought splendid resvilts as the years went on.
In 18SG Mr. Brunsdale was elected county treasurer of Steele county by a very large
majority and was twice reelected to the office. His efficiency in business methods demon-
strated itself in his organization of the financial system of the county, which was long
remembered by his fellow citizens. He retired from office to resume the pursuits of agricul-
tural life and became one of the foremost farmers of the county, acquiring one and a half
sections of land nine miles west of Hatton. upon which farm he resided until his death,
devoting his time to the further development and improvement of his land, which he con-
verted into a valuable farm property. He was also one of the pioneers in I)anking circles
in North Dakota and in teaching the public those lessons of finance which have made his part
of the state unusually prosperous. He became a leader in local banking circles, figuring
actively in the successful conduct of a number of banking institutions. He was president
of the State Bank of Portland, president of the State Bank of Finley and vice president of
the Goose River Bank, and his sound judgment was a feature in their suceesstyl manage-
ment and control.
At Dccorah, Iowa, on the 29th of May, 1888. ;Mr. Brunsdale was married to Miss Mar-
garet Nordgaard, a daughter of Ncls and Kline Nordgaard. She was born in Norway, June
5, 18G0, a year before her parents came to tlie United States, at which time they made
settlement in Iowa. Mr. and Mrs. Brunsdale became the parents of seven children, of whom
two are deceased. Those who survive are George Elmer. Clarence Norman. Kristian Edward,
Anna Elizabeth and Karl Henry.
The death of the husband and father occurred January 16, 1899, subsequent to which
time Mrs. Brunsdale took charge of the large estate and her administration thereof has
been charaeterized by marked business ability. It is said that the property under her man-
agement has been increased many times in value. She is the presiding genius and active
business manager of the estate, which comprises a very large area of fertile and valuable
farm lands in Steele and Traill counties, besides many other important interests and invest-
ments, over which she holds the stewardship. She was a worthy helpmate to her husband
during his lifetime and has been a capable successor to him in the management of the
business affairs which he left. Mrs. Brunsdale and her family are members of the Eutheran
church and her children have been educated at the Luthpran College. Mr. Brunsdale was
KNUTE H. BRUNSDALE
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 41
always a firm believer in the cause of education and it was his desire that his children should
have excellent advantages along that' line. For several years and up to the time of his
death he was a member of the board of trustees of the State Normal School and an eloquent
tribute was paid his memory by resolutions that were passed by the Normal School board
on the day following his demise. He was a very strong advocate of prohibition and gave
of his time and money in order that North Dakota might enter the Union as a prohibition
state. Everywhere he was known he was spoken of in terms of the highest regard. His
ability brought him prominently before the public in his business relations and his life
record indicated what might be accomplished when determination and energy lead the way.
The integiity of his business methods was unassailable and his life history proved that
success and an honored name may be won simultaneously.
A. G. DIVET.
A. G. Divet, who is a member of the firm of Purcell & Divet. the leading law firm
of Wahpeton, is one of the well known residents of that city. In addition to law practice
he Is serving as a member of the state legislature. A native of Minnesota, he was born
in Byron, Olmsted county, on the 10th of January, 1870, a son of Daniel and Harriet L.
(Sykes) Divet. The father was born in Pennsylvania in 1835 and is still living, but the
mother, whose blith occurred in Canada in 1S45, died in 1906. The paternal grandfather
was Michael Divet, a native of Ireland, who on emigrating to the United States settled first
in Pennsylvania and later in Wisconsin. He was a pioneer of the latter state and there
engaged in farming for many years. His religious faith was that of the Catholic church.
The maternal grandfather, Victor Sykes, was born in Canada but in the early history
of Wisconsin became a resident of that state and there he passed the remainder of his life.
The parents of our subject were married in Minnesota, the father having moved there
from Dane county, Wisconsin, in 1860. In 1879 he and his family came to North Dakota,
settling in Richland county. He engaged in agricultural pursuits and met with gratifying
success in his chosen occupation. In early manhood he went to California and later to
Colorado, where he mined for gold, but later he concentrated his efltorts upon farming. On
removing to this state he took up a homestead and tree claim and later he traded for other
land in this state, becoming in time the owner of two thousand acres of excellent land.
He now resides with a daughter in Morton county at an advanced age, but is still alert
and interested in the happenings of the day. He is unusually well read and during his
active life was a power in his community. In politics he is a stalwart republican. To him
and his wife were born seven children, five of whom are still living, namely: A. G.; Eunice,
the widow of Joseph Glyn, of Morton county, who was a successful farmer; Lorena, who
resides upon the homestead in Morton county; Sykes, who is farming near Hutchinson,
Minnesota; and Walter, of Lisbon, who is court stenographer for his district.
A. G. Divet received his early education in the common schools of Minnesota and North
Dakota and lat^i attended the academy at Madison, AVisconsin. for about two years, after
which he studied law in connection with the discharge of his duties as court reporter,
which office he held for six years. After being admitted to the bar he located at Forman,
this state, for practice, but two years later returned to Wahpeton and become associated in
piactiee with Senator William E. Purcell. As time has passed they have gained prominence
at the bar of the state and the firm of Purcell & Divet is recognized as the leading one in
the city of Wahpeton and the second one in the state. They engage in general practice,
have not only a large but also an important clientage and are known in adjoining states
as well as throughout North Dakota. They are also heavily interested in farming, own-
ing a large ranch near Wahpeton, and it is characteristic of their enterprise and progres-
siveness that they were the first successful alfalfa growers in the state. They carry
on diversified farming, raising corn, oats, wheat, cattle and hogs. They have all the latest
equipment for scientific farming and in their methods utilize the discoveries of investigators
along various phases of farming. In the seven years that they have owned the farm they
have expended thirty-five thousand dollars in improving it, and it is now one of the show
Vol. n— 3
42 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
places ol Kichlaiid county. They manage the farm well and derive a handsome income
therefrom.
Mr. Divet was married in 1S95 to Miss Xora Russell, who was born in Goodhue county,
Minnesota, a daughter of Elijah Russell, a successful merchant. Mr. and Mrs. Divet have
two children; Donovan, who has completed two years of the academic course in the State
University of Minncosta and is now a freshnum in the school of law; and Rushby, who is
sixteen years of age and is in high school.
Mr. and Mrs. Divet belong to the Congregational church, in the work of which they
take an active part. Mr. Divet has been chairman of the board of trustees for many years
and at times has filled pulpits in this section of the state. He is identified with the Inde-
pendent Order of Odd Fellows and with the Knights of Pythias, and in the latter organi-
zation has passed through all the chairs. His political allegiance is given to the republican
party and he is recognized as a leader in public alTairs. He is now serving his second term
as a member of the state legislature and is making a creditable record in that capacity,
proving not only public-spirited but also discriminating in his support of or opposition to
various measures. He is not only respected for his ability and esteemed because of his
unquestioned integrity but he is also held in warm personal regard by those who have been
intimately associated with liira.
JAMES FERGUSON.
James Ferguson, of Grandin. is one of the well known elevator men and grain dealers
in his part of the state and is also a member of the firm of O. L. Ferguson & Company,
general merchants. He was born in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, on the 10th of .January, 1S51,
a son of George and Ann (Hall) Ferguson, both natives of Ireland, where they were reared
and married and whence in 1S45 they came to the United States. They located first in Lan-
caster, Pennsylvania, where the father was employed in iron furnaces for a time, but at
length they removed to Henry county, Illinois, where he engaged in farming and where
both he and his wife passed away.
James Ferguson was about four years of age when his parents removed to Henry
county and there he received his education, which was limited, however, as he was never
able to attend school for more than three months during the year after he was put to work
at the plow at the age of nine years. He became thoroughly familiar with agricultural
pursuits and the training which he received inculcated in him industry, self-control and
reliability.
Following his marriage Mr. Ferguson purchased eighty acres of land in Henry county,
Illinois, where he resided until the spring of 1883, when he came to North Dakota, settling
first at Larimore, where, however, he remained but a short time, after which he removed
to Towner county and took up a homestead twelve miles east of Cando. After proving up
on his claim he returned to Larimore and engaged in farming in that vicinity until IS'OO,
when he removed to Grandin and became the manager of the elevator owned by the North-
western Elevator Company. He held that position for twenty-three years and during
that time never lost a day's work — a truly remarkable record. During part of that time
he was also engaged in business for himself, handling the Dcering line of farm machinery,
but for the past ten years he has been associated with his son. Otto L. Ferguson, in the
implement and general merchandising business under the firm name of O. L. Ferguson &
Company. They not only handle all kinds of farm implements but also carry a complete
line of general merchandise and they have gained a gratifying and well deserved patron-
age. For the past two years the subject of this review has had charge of the grain
elevator owned by the JTonarch Elevator Company and his long connection with the grain
trade has made him woU known in business circles of this part of the state.
Tn 1875 Mr. Ferguson married !Miss Hattie A. Totman, of Henry county, Illinois, and
they have become the parents of three children: Otto L.; Lela Estelle, the wife of Ed C.
.\nderson, a real estate agent of Fargo; and Edward M., who is employed in the store of
O. L. Ferguson & Company.
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 43
The republican party has in Mr. Ferguson a stalwart adherent, and fraternally he
belongs to Hillsboro Lodge, No. 511, A. F. & A. M., and to the Independent Order of
Foresters. Both he and his wife attend the Presbyterian church and seek to conform their
lives to the teachings of Christianity. Mr. Ferguson is recognized as a man of excellent
judgment and of accurate knowledge of business conditions, and the success which he has
gained is well deserved.
NELS SWENSON.
Norway has furnished a full quota of citizens to North Dakota and they have contrib-
uted in large measure to the development of the state, especially along agricultural lines.
A representative of this class is Nels Swenson, who is engaged in general farming on section
2, Wiser township, Cass county, where he now owns a well improved property of one hun-
dred and sixty acres. He was born in Norway March 6, 1870, a son of Swen and Johanna
Swenson who were likewise natives of the same land. The father died there, but the mother
still makes her home in Norway. Their family numbered but two children, both sons, Nels
and John, who are now residents of Cass county.
Spending his youthful days in his native land, Nels Swenson pursued his education
in the schools of Norway and in 1888, when a youth of eighteen years, sailed for the United
States, for the reports which had reached him concerning the opportunities of the new world
were irresistibly attractive. He journeyed across the country to North Dakota and settled
in Cass county, where for eight years he worked as a farm hand. During that period he
carefully saved his earnings until economy and industry had brought him capital sufficient
to enable him to purchase land and he became owner of one hundred and sixty acres on
section 2, Wiser township. He took up his abode thereon and has since added many improve-
ments. Good machinery facilitates the work of the fields and the farm is in every way
modern in its equipment, while he follows the most progressive methods in the conduct of
the work of the fields. He also owns and operates a tlireshing outfit and thereby is adding
lo his annual income.
In April, 1895, Mr. Swenson was united in marriage to Miss Carrie Berg, who is a
native of Norway and was brought to the United States when but one year old. Her parents
are both deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Swenson have seven children, namely: Oliver, John, Min-
nie, Clarence, Lillie, Stella and Frances.
The parents are members of the Lutheran church and Mr. Swenson gives his political
allegiance to the republican party. He is now serving as one of the school directors and
he is actively and helpfully interested in all plans and projects for the upbuilding of the dis-
trict and for furthering the welfare of the community. His life indicates what may be accom-
plished when perseverance and energy lead the way and his example, if followed, will bring
the individual to the goal of success.
E. H. MYHRA.
E. H. Myhra, cashier of the Farmers & Merchants State Bank of Wahpeton, is a
native of Eishland county and was bom on the 9th of December, 1873. His parents, H. C. Nj
and Elise (Eriekson) Myhra, were both born in Kongsberg, Norway, the former in 1843
and the latter in 1846. They were married in their native land, vwhere they resided until they
emigi-ated to the United States, making their way to Eushford, Minnesota. In 18T1, how-
ever, they removed to Richland county. North Dakota, where the father homesteaded
land, which he has since improved until it is now one of the well developed farms of the
locality. H. C. N. Myhra has added to his holding and now owns four hundred acres, on
wliich he does general farming. His wife is also still living. He is a republican in politics
and for three terms served efliicicntly as clerk of the court. He has always taken a deep
interest in public affairs and keeps well informed on all of the questions and issues of the
44 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
day. He is liighly educated and speaks and writes German, Norwegian and Englisli. His
religious faith is that of tlie Norwegian Lutheran church, to the support of which he con-
tributes. To him and his wife were born eight children, seven of whom are living, namely:
Mrs. K. llausken, wliose husband is engaged in the clothing business in Wahpeton; Mrs.
Ed Wilson, of Moorhead, Minnesota, whose husband is now living retired; E. H.; Nellie;
George, who is assisting in the operation of the home farm; Mrs. F. A. Magnusson, whose
husband is clerk in a store in Moorhead, Minnesota; and Agnes, at home.
E. H. Myhra attended the public schools of Kichland county and continued his studies
at Moorhead, IMinnesota, thus securing a good education. During the summer months he
assisted in the work of the home farm and became familiar with the value of energy and
of concentration upon the task at hand. On leaving school he entered a drug store, where
he learned pharmacy, and for fourteen years he engaged in tlie drag business in Wahpeton.
In 1904, however, he was appointed postmaster and received two re-appointments, serving
in that capacity until March, 191G. In 1914 he became cashier of the Farmers & Merchants
State Bank, which was established in December, 1914, with a capital of twenty thousand
dollars and which has already built up a good business, the average deposits being eighty
thousand dollars.
Mr. Myhra was married in 1898 to Miss May Dahl, who was born in Sweden but was
brought to this country by her parents wlien but three years of age. To them have been
born two children: Lucile, born in 1903; and Harold, born in 1904.
, Mr. Myhra is a republican in politics and for eight years served as chairman of the
county committee, doing much during that time to strengthen the party throughout
the county. His wife belongs to the Christian Science church and he is identified with the
Masonic blue lodge, the Royal Arch Chapter, the Knights Templar Commandery and
the Mystic Shrine, and likewise with the Workmen, the Yeomen and the Knights of Pythiaa,
in which he is past chancellor. His life has been one of well directed activity and his labors
have contributed not only to his individual prosperity but also to the development of hia
community. The high esteem in which he is generally held is well deserved and there are
many who are his warm personal friends.
C. S. COLLINS.
C. S. Collins, residing on section 15, Hunter township, Cass countj', has been actively
engaged in farming in this state for the past thirty-two years and is now the owner of
six hundred and forty acres of valuable land. His birth occurred in New York on the 2d
day of August, 1800, his parents being Stowell and Louisa (Wilcox) Collins, who are also
natives of the Empire state. In 1873 they removed to Cliisago county, Minnesota, locating
in the town of Sunrise, where thej' still reside at the ages of eight-five and eighty-two years
respectively. By trade the father is a blacksmith.
C. S. Collins attended the public schools in the acquirement of an education but as
early as his fifteenth year became a wage earner, entering the employ of Samuel McClure,
a lumberman. He worked for liim in the woods and remained with this employer for about
fifteen years in various capacities, superintending a Noitli Dakota farm for liim tlirougli
a period of twelve years. It was in May, 1883, that he came to this state, continuing
with Mr. McClure until 1890. In that year, in association witli Ing Jlocn, he purchased a
section of land from his em])loy('r and tliis he cultivated in partnership for two years, on
the expiration of wliich period lie sold his interest to Mr. Moen. He now owns six hundred
and forty acres of land wliich he bought at dill'ercnt times, his first purchase being made in
1885 and embracing one hundred and sixty acres. Gratifying success has attended his
undertakings as an agriculturist and he is widely recognized as one of the prosperous
and leading citizens of his community. He is a stockholder and vice president of the
Farmers & Jferchants Bank of Hunter and a stocklioldcr in tlic First National Hank of
Hunter and the Farmers Elevator Company of Hunter.
Mr. Collins has been twice married. In 1887 he wedded Miss Ro.sa Russell, of llimter,
North Dakota, who passed away in 1902, leaving the following children: Stowell, engaged
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 45
in farming in Giinkle township, Cass county, tliis state: Lloyd, the cashier of the Farmers
& Merchants Bank of Hunter; and Charles, Dellis and Gladys, at home. In July, 1905, Jlr.
Collins was again married, his second union being with Miss Percie Jackson, of North-
field, Minnesota. To them have been born three children, namely: Edwin, Nathan and
Louise.
In politics Mr. Collins is independent, supporting men and measures rather than party.
He is a member of the township board of trustees, on which lie has served for many years,
while for about twentj' years he has been a member of the scliool board, the cause of
education ever finding in him a stanch champion. Fraternally he is identified with the
following organizations: Hunter Lodge, No. 63, A. F. & A. M. ; Casselton Chapter, No. 2,
R. A. M.; Auvergne Commandery, No. 1, K. T.; El Zagal Temple, A. A. 0. N. M. S.;
Hunter Lodge, No. 25, Independent Order of Odd Fellows; and Hunter Lodge, No. 42,
Knights of Pythias. His wife is a devoted and consistent member of the Presbyterian
church. His has been an active, useful and honorable life crowned not only by success
but by the goodwill, confidence and high regard of his fellowmen, who have at all times
found him trustworthy, laboring for the interests of tlie community, placing patriotism
before partisanship and never sacrificing loyalty in citizenship to personal ends.
ALBERT N. CARLBLOM.
Albert N. Carlblom, prominently identified with the interests of Gwinner as postmaster,
banker and merchant, Avas born in Sweden, December 17, 1863, and of that country his
parents, John G. and Elizabetli (Anderson) Carlblom, were also natives. The father was
born in Sweden in 1835 and came to the United States in 1866, settling in Minnesota, where
he remained until 1882. In tliat year lie arrived in North Dakota, establishing his home
near the present town site of Gwinner. He entered a claim on section 26, White Stone
Hill township, and remained thereon until his death, which occurred :May 18, 1900, his
entire life having been devoted to the occupation of farming. It was in 1848 that he wedded
Elizabeth Anderson, who was also born in Sweden in 1825 and who passed away in May,
1899. They were the parents of nine children, of whom six are yet living.
Albert N. Carlblom was tlie youngest of that family and was but two years of age
when taken to Minnesota. He acquired liis education in the common schools of Cokato
and in the Gustavus Adolphus College at St. Peter, ^Minnesota, from which he was grad-
uated witli the class of 1886. He then tiu-ned his attention to the profession of teaching,
which he followed for four years in Minnesota and North Dakota, and later he engaged
in clerking in general stores in Milnor and in Lisbon, devoting two years to that work. He
was appointed deputy county treasurer- of Sargent county in 1889 and served for one year,
after which he received the appointment of deputy county auditor, in wliich capacity he
continued for two years. In 1893 he was elected county auditor for Sargent county
and held tliat position for a iperiod of six years. In 1898 he was chosen state auditor,
occupying the office for four years, and thus he advanced to high political office, in which
connection he discharged his duties with marked capability and fidelity and wore his
honors with becoming modesty. He continued to fill the position of state auditor until
1901, at which time he established a general mercantile store in Gwinner and is still con-
ducting business there, enjoying a liberal patronage. In 1904 he joined T. F. Marshall, of
Oakes, George W. McWilliams, of Milwaukee and F. W. Vail, of Milnor in organizing the
State Bank of Gwinner, of which he became the vice president. In 1907 he purchased
the interests of the other stockholders and reorganized the bank, of which he became the
president, and since that time he has directed its policy and managed its interests, making
it one of the strong financial concerns of the county. He is also interested in fanning,
owning property in Wliite Stone Hill township. It was Mr. Carlblom who erected the first
building in the town of Gwinner, tliis being the building w^iich he now occupies with his
stock of general merchandise.
On the 37th of March, 1898, Mr. Carlblom was married to Miss Josephine Peterson,
■who was born in Cottonwood county, Minnesota, .January 27, 1874, a daughter of Ole and
46 , HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
Alette Peterson, wlio wcio fiirly residents of Minnesota, where they l)ecame farming people.
Both have now passed away. Of tlieir family of seven children Mrs. Carlblom was the
fourth in order of birth, and by her marriage she has become the mother of three children:
Vera Lenore, born March 11, 1809; Kdna Treno, FelMiiary. 11. 1001: imd Albert K, Novem-
ber 7. 1911.
In cominiinity affairs Mr. Carlblom has always been active and is the present post-
master of Gwinncr, while his wife previously acted as postmistress for fourteen years. Mr.
Carlblom is also president of the school board and there is no movement or measure insti-
tuted for the upbuilding and benefit of his community or for the advancement of the wel-
fare of the state that does not receive his strong endorsement, approval and support. He
holds membership in the Swedish Lutheran church and fraternally he is a thirty-second
degree Mason, prominent in the order. Ho is a past master of the blue lodge at Forman,
North Dakota, and he holds membership with the Consistory and with the Shrine at Fargo.
His prominence in political circles as well as the importance of his business interests has
made him widelv known and Ninth Dakota ininibers him among her representative men.
MORRIS E. PORTER.
ilorris R. Porter, who since October, 1911, has been cashier and manager of the Scandi-
navian American Bank of Minot, was born near Blue Grass, Iowa, September 18, 1873, a
son of Samuel and Euphemia L. (Watts) Porter. The father, who was born in Ohio, Feb-
ruary 1, 1850, was an attorney by profession and about 1800 removed to Iowa, being admitted
to the bar in that state, after which he practiced law continuously until his death June 26,
1893. His wife, who was born in Iowa, May 10, 1850, passed away September 22, 1915.
They had a family of three children, of whom Morris R. is the eldest.
After attending the common schools in his home county in Iowa, Morris R. Porter con-
tinued his studies in the high school at Guthrie Center, Iowa, and when a youth of fourteen
he began providing for his own support by working as a farm hand for others through the
summer months, whih? in the winter seasons he continued his education, spending his time
in that way for about three years. He afterward entered the law, loan and abstract ollice
of John W. Foster, of Guthrie Center, Iowa, in the capacity of stenographer and remained
with him for eleven years. In 1S95 he became cashier of the Citizens Investment Bank at
Guthrie Center while still connected with Mr. Foster and served in that capacity until 1902.
when he purchased an interest and took over the management of the First National Bank
at Stuart, Iowa. A year later, however, he sold his holdings in that institution and returned
to Guthrie Center, wlienee in 1904 he removed to Fargo, North Dakota, where he purchased
the business of the Cass County Abstract Company, which he consolidated with that of the
Northern Ab.stract Company, operating under the name of the latter. Mr. Porter was iden-
tified therewith until 1906, when in connection with others he iiurchased the Forest River
State Bank, of which he assumed the management, carrying on the business until 1908. In
that year he went to Colorado on account of impaired health, remaining for a year. In June,
1909, he returned to North Dakota and established his home at Minot, where he engaged
in the farm loan and real estate business and also had a contract for transcribing tlie records
of Burke, Renville and Divide counties. In October, 1911, he purchased the Scandinavian
American Bank of Minot, of which he became the cashier and general manager and has so
continued to the present time, thus entering upon important relations in connection with
the financial interests of the western part of the state. He is also a landowner of North
Dakota but devotes the greater part of his attention to his banking business. He is also a
stockholder and director of the Hartland State Bank at Hartland, North Dakota.
On the 12th of June, 1895, Mr. Porter was united in marriage to Miss Sarah C. Kel-
logg, who was born in Iowa, her parents being Henry \V. and Margaret (Guthrie) Kellogg,
the latter a native of Illinois. The father, a native of New York, is now engaged in the
banking business at Menlo, Iowa. The daughter, Mrs. Porter, passed away in February, 1913,
leaving three children, as follows: Hubert K., who was horn (Jctober 17, 1897; Evelyn F.,
whose natal day was February 17, 1900; and Frances Louise, born February 25, 1912.
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 47
Mr. Porter is an independent republican nor has he ever aspired to political office. He
belongs to the Masonic lodge and in his life exemplifies the beneficent spirit of the craft.
Since starting out in business life as a farm hand, working by the month in the summer
seasons in order to continue his education in the winter, he has made steady progress and
is today occupying a prominent and enviable position in banking circles. He has had broad
and varied experience and at all times has thoroughly learned life's lessons. His work has
wrought for individual advancement and also for the prosperity of the community in which
he has lived, and he now occupies an enviable position in the business circles of Minot.
GUSTAV SCHULER.
Colonel Gustav Schuler, a successful lawyer of Wahpeton. Richland county, was born in
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on the 25th of October, 1862, a son of Douiinic and Catherine (Heil-
man) Schuler, both natives of Germany, the former bom in Gabsheim, in the grand duchy
of Hesse-Darmstadt in 1829, the latter in northern Germany. The father came to the
United States in the latter part of 1848, seeking political freedom here, as owing to the
insurrection in Germany in 1848 he was compelled to leave his native land. He first went
to Switzerland with others connected with that uprising and thereafter came to this country,
settling in New York city, whence he came to Milwaukee, where he made his home. In
Milwaukee he engaged in the contracting business for a number of years, after which he
entered the emploj' of the Chicago, Milwaukee and St. Paul Railway Company, with which
he remained until he retired. At the time of the Civil war he enlisted in Battery B of
the Wisconsin Heavy Artillery and was at the front with his command during the entire
enlistment or until the close of the Civil war, tnus proving his loyalty to his adopted
country. After becoming naturalized, he supported the democratic party but steadfastly
refused public office.
He passed away in 1911 and there were many who sincerely mourned his demise, as his
salient characteristics were such as to win confidence, esteem and regard. He was married
in New York city to Miss Catherine Heilman, who passed to her reward shortly after his
demise. She was a woman of remarkable character and had through her own efforts placed
herself in an enviable intellectual position, and was the friend and benefactor of all wlm
needed sj-mpathy and assistance. They were the parents of five children, four of whom
are still living, namely: Professor D. H., a graduate of the University of Wisconsin, who is
engaged in educational work in that state; Eugene, an architect; Gustav, the subject of this
sketch; and Miss Katherine, a teacher in the Milwaukee schools. The paternal grandfather
was Johann Adam Schuler, a highly intellectual man, who was an educator in Germany.
Colonel Schuler attended the public schools in Milwaukee and took up the study of
law under Judge W. H. Timlin, now of the supreme court of Wisconsin. In 1887 he was
admitted to tlie bar, and began the practice of his chosen profession at Kewaunee, Wisconsin,
where he remained in practice until the year 1890, when he removed to Wahpeton, North
Dakota, where he is still actively engaged in tlie practice of law. He has a large and rep-
resentative clientage, which comes nbt only from this state but also from adjoining states,
and he has the confidence and respect of his brother attorneys. He has given especial atten-
tion to probate law and is recognized as an authority in that field. In addition to his pro-
fessional interests he is the owner of considerable land within this state and valuable
business property in Wahpeton.
Mr. Schuler is married and his family consists of one daughter living, Mrs. Mable
Kachelhofl'er, whose husband is a practicing attorney at law at Wahpeton, North Dakota,
and two granddaughters, Mable and -Julia Zellhoofer, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the daughters
of liis deceased daughter Grace.
Mr. Schuler is a democrat and takes a prominent part in public affairs. When living
in Wisconsin he served as municipal justice of the city of Kewaunee for several terms
knd has held the office of states attorney in his county here for three terms. He has also
taken care of the affairs of the city of Wahpeton, as its city attorney, for three terms.
He is well known in the Sons of Veterans and in 1892 was appointed as provisional
48 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
colonel of that order, and served as such officer for several years. He manifests his deep
loyalty to the best interests of his country in the conscientious discharge of his duties when
in public office and in a willingness to subordinate personal interests to the general welfare
at all times. Although the success which he has gained financially and professionally is very
creditable, it is doubly so, in consideration of tlie fact that after he reached the age of
thirteen years he was wholl.y dependent upon his own resources in the obtainment of his
professional education. Tlie ambition, enterprise and determination which enabled him
to secure his education have since been im])ortant factors in his career, and it can be truly
said of him that he is a self-made man.
A. J. SCHUR.
A. J. Schur, one of the. substantial agriculturists of Arthur township, living on section
27, has been a resident of Xorth Dakota for the jiast thirty-eight years and is now the owner
of four hundred and eighty acres of land comprising one of the valuable and well improved
farms of Cass county. His birth occurred in Germany on the 1st of November, 1856, his
parents being Martin and Minnie (Welke) Schur, who emigrated to the United States in
1873 and established their home in Dodge county, Wisconsin. In 1879 they followed our
subject to Xorth Dakota, locating in Amenia township, Cass county, where they spent the
remainder of their lives. Martin Schur passed away in 1897, while his wife was called to
her final rest in 1903, the comniunit_y thus losing two of its respected early settlers.
A. J. Schur obtained a district school education and as early as his sixteentli year
become a wage earner, working as a farm liand. In the spring of 1878, shortly after attain-
ing his majority, he came to North Dakota and preempted a quarter section of land in
Amenia township, Cass county. He proved up on his claim and in 1887 bought a relinquish-
ment on a tree claim in section 28, Arthur township. In 1902 he sold his preemption and
purchased a farm of three hundred and twenty acres adjoining his tree claim, to which he
removed and on which he has since resided. His present place of four hundred and eighty
acres is one of the most jjroductive and attractive farms of Cass county, annually yielding
rich harvests which find a ready sale on the market. He is a stockholder in the Farmers
Elevator Company of Arthur and enjoys an enviable reputation as an enterprising and
representative citizen of his community.
In 1880 Mr. Schur was joined in wedlock to ;Miss ^Mary Aberthroth. who is a native of
Germany and came to the United States in 1877. To them have been born ten children, nine
of whom survive, as follows: Louis, a rural mail carrier residing in Arthur, North Dakota;
Elma, who is the wife of John Butchcn, of Arthur; Lena, twin sister of Elma, who gave her
hand in marriage to Isaac Roberts, an elevator man of .\rthur; Arthur, at home; Olga,
who is the wife of Gordon Burgum. the manager of tlie Northwestern elevator at .\rthur.
North Dakota; and .John, Edward, JIamie and KUa, all at home.
Politically ^Mr. Schur is a stanch republican and a member of the present board of
township trustees, while for several years he has also served on the school board. His
religious faith is indicated by his membership in the German Lutheran church, to which his
wife and children also belong. During his long period of residence in Cass county he has
made many friends and his well known integrity and honesty of purpose have made him
popular and esteemed in the district.
HON. CHARLKS. A. TUBES.
Prominent among the enterprising, progressive and successful business men of Hunter
is the Hon. Cliarles A. Tubbs, now manager of the grain interests of the Cargill Elevator
Company, Basing his success upon industry, perseverance and enterprise, he has steadily
■worked his way upward in business connections and is now prominently and favorably
known in his part of the state. He was born in River Falls, Wisconsin, .Inly 12, 1858, a
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 49
son of Erasmus P. and Lydia (Guertin) Tubbs, the father a native of Vermont and the
motlier of Canada. Tliey were married in the Green ilountain state and soon afterward,
or about the year 1854, removed to River Falls, Wisconsin, where Mr. Tubbs engaged in
farming. He continued in that state until 1880, when he went to Traverse county, Minnesota,
where both he and his wife spent their remaining days.
Charles A. Tubbs spent his youthful days under the parental roof and acquired his
education in the public schools. In young manhood he learned the trade of a brick and stone
mason, at which he worked for seven years, and in 1887 he came to North Dakota, where
he entered into active connection with the grain business. In 1893 he engaged in merchan-
dising and was prominently identified with that line of commercial activity for twelve years.
At the same time he continued in the grain trade as manager for the Cargill Elevator Com-
pany and in 1904 and 1905 he had charge of the Farmers Elevator at Galesburg, North
Dakota. At the end of that period he again took charge of the Cargill elevator at Hunter
and has since been active in this field of business. He is regarded as one of the ablest and
most capable grain merchants of his part of the state and annually controls an extensive
business.
In 1893 Mr. Tubbs was united in marriage to Miss Cora L. Hunter, of Viroqua, Wiscon-
sin, by whom he has two children. McKinley D., who graduated from the Hunter high school
in 1914 and then spent a year in the University of North Dakota, is now employed in the
head office of the Cargill Elevator Company at Minneapolis. Doris C. completed a course
in the Hunter high school by graduation with the class of 1915.
Mr. Tubbs exercises his right of franchise in support of the men and measures of the
republican party and is a recognized leader in its ranks. Upon its ticket he was elected
to the state legislature for the years 1901 and 1903 and made a creditable record in that
position, carefully considering all the important questions which came up for settlement and
casting his vote according to the dictates of his judgment, which easily recognized the value
of various important measures. Fraternally he is identified with the Masons, belonging to
the following organizations: Hunter Lodge, No. 63, A. F. & A. M.; Casselton Chapter, No. 2,
R. A. M. ; and Auvergne Commandery, No. 1, K. T., of Fargo. He is likewise a member of
the Masonic Veteran Association. In his life Mr. Tubbs exemplifies the beneficent spirit
of the craft and conforms his actions to its teachings. He is popular among his brethren
of the fraternity and has the social qualities which render him popular wherever he is known.
His business enterprise, too, has carried him steadily forward and he is now regarded as one
of the foremost citizens of Hunter and his part of the state.
WILLIAM DUNNELL.
Various important business interests at Minot have felt the stimulus of the activity
and cooperation of William Dunnell, who is the vice president and general manager of the
Minot Flour Mill Company, Incorporated, and also of the Western Elevator Company, Incor-
porated. He was born at St. Mary's, Oxford county, Ontario, Canada, August 15, 1870, a
son of Alfred and Sarah (Robinson) Duiuiell, who were also natives of that place. There
the father is still active, having devoted his life to farming. For manj^ years he has served
as a member of the board of education there and is a stalwart champion of the public
schools. His wife died in June, 1910.
In their family were twelve children, of whom William Dunnell is the eldest. He
attended school in Harrington, Ontario, and at the age of si.xteen years began work as a farm
hand, being thus employed for two years. He afterward began learning the milling trade
in St. Mary's, serving a three years' apprenticeship, and in 1890 he removed to Millwood,
Manitoba, where as head miller he operated a mill for a year. In the spring of 1891 he
made his way to Elk River, Minnesota, where for eight years he acted as head miller and
on the expiration of that period became a resident of Stillwater Minnesota, where in con-
nection with others he organized the Minnesota Flour Mill Company, of which he became
manager, and thus controlled the business until 1906. He still retains his interest in that
enterprise but for the past ten years has resided in Minot and with others he purchased
50 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
the .Miiiot Flour .Mill Company, liu-oiporated, of which he is the vice president and general
manager. In the summer of 1915 he organized the Western Elevator Company, Incorporated,
of which he is also the vice president and general manager. He is likewise a landowner,
having a farm three miles south of Miuot, but he devotes the greater part of his attention
to the milling and grain business. The Western Elevator Company operates a line of ele-
vators in North Dakota and the Minot Milling Company makes shipments to all the largei
markets throughout the United States. This company manufactures flour of superior excel-
lence, known as the Snow White, and the mill is completely equipped with the most modern
machinery and employs the latest processes. Steadily the trade has grown until it has now
assumed extensive proportions and the success of the two undertakings is attributable in
no small measure to the efforts and business ability of Mr. Bunnell.
In June 1893, Mr. Bunnell was united in marriage to Miss Eosenna Vice, a native of
Ontario, Canada, and a daughter of George and Emily (Goulden) Vice, both of whom were
born in England. The father, a foundryman and merchant, is still actively engaged in
business in Ontario, but the mother passed away in the year 1890. To Mr. and Mrs. Bun-
nell have been born eight children, as follows: Florence J., who is supervisor of music in
the schools of Portal, North Bakota; Edith Grace, a student in the State Normal School
at Minot: William Harold, a sophomore in the Minot high school; Myron Goulden, a si.xth
grade public school student; Irwin Robinson, a fifth grade pupil; and Howard, Wilbur and
Claire, all at home.
Mr. Bunnell is prominently known in fraternal circles, holding membership with the
JNIasonic lodge, the Knights of Pythias, the Foresters and the United Commercial Travelers.
His political allegiance is given to the republican party and he has served on the board of
aldermen of Minot. He belongs to the Methodist Episcopal church and in its teachings
is found the guiding spirit of his life, which conforms thereto in all of its relations. He is
found thoroughly reliable as well as enterprising in business and progressive and trustworthy
in citizenship, while the qualities he displays in private life have won him warm and endur-
ing friendships.
JOHN BARRETT FOLSOM.
Wlien Fargo was entering upon an era of rapid development and progress John Barrett
Folsom became identified with that section of the state and remained to the time of his
death a prominent figure in the business and social life of his community. If the historian
were, without preliminary effort, to set forth his achievements in a single sentence it would
perhaps best be done in the words, the splendid success of an honest man in whose life
business ability and humanitarianisui were well balanced forces.
Mr. Folsom was born in Ohio in 1837 and spent his boyhood in the southern part of
that state. He attended the public school of Ironton until his thirteenth year and was said
to be the brightest boy that ever attended that school, but on entering his teens he was
forced to put aside his textbooks in order to provide for his own support and began earning
his living as a clerk in a country store. From that time until his death on the 6th of
August, 1912, he scarcely passed an idle day. In 18G3 he accepted a position at an iron
furnace and was connected with the iron industiy at dillerent periods in Ohio. Kentucky,
Tennessee, Missouri and Michigan, thoroughly acquainting himself with every detail of the
business and continuing his activity along tluit line until he yielded to the lure of Bakota.
In 1882 Mr. Folsom sold his interests in iron furnaces and came to Fargo, which was
then in the midst of a boom. He there purchased property and immediately opened a real
estate and loan office, meeting with success in the business from the beginning. He soon
mastered all of the details of real estate transactions and activity aa thoroughly as he
had the details of the iron business. Mr. Folsom had the same kind of a mental picture of
a quarter section of land in the region within one hundred or more miles of Fargo that a
wide-awake, enterprising real estate broker in the city has of its blocks and streets. He
did not have to refer to maps or notes when a farm or an undeveloped piece of land was
TOentioned; the legal description of it immediately suggested a mental plituiv to liiin. If
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 51
it wpic improved property lie knew precisely how many buildings there were and what
kind of a well there was on it, also the character and quality of the soil. To the day of his
death he was a man of extraordinary mental and physical activity but as simple, as gentle
and as kindly in his nature as a girl. Mr. Folr^om had no enemies; there was nothing in his
nature or his actions to inspire enmity. By hi honesty, his kindliness, his helpfulness and
unselfish attention to their interests he endeared himself to all of his business clients and
associates and there is no man in all of the young state of North Dakota who has helped
more worthy homesteaders to overcome hardships and difficulties occasioned by bad crops
and keep possession of their farms than did Mr. Folsom.
In 1863 occurred the marriage of Mr. Folsom and Miss Lavisa C. Forsythe, of southern
Ohio, and when death called him he was survived by his widow and a daughter, the latter
being the wife of Major Matthew F. Steele, of the United States Army, who after serving for
thirty years as a cavalry officer retired from active military duty in order to take charge
of Mr. Folsom's business and estate.
Mr. Folsom was one of Fargo's most public-spirited men and was always ready to
give personal and financial aid to whatever was done for the betterment of business or
social conditions of the town. He stood at all times for advancement and improvement
and heartily cooperated in those measures which were a matter of civic virtue and civic
pride. Of his many good qualities not the least was his capacity for strong friendships.
The simplicity and beauty of his daily life as seen in his home and family relations consti-
tuted an even balance to his splendid business ability. The high ideals which he cherished
found embodiment in practical effort for their adoption and because of the innate refine-
ment of his nature he rejected everything opposed to good taste.
HON. FRANK V. ALLEN.
Hon. Frank P. Allen, judge of tlie fourth district court of North Dakota and a resident
of Lisbon, was born in New York city on the 19th of December, 1859, his parents being
Frank S. and Hannah E. (Benedict) Allen, both of whom were natives of New York city
and descended from old colonial families connected with Revolutionary war liistory, so that
Judge Allen is eligible to membership through both the paternal and maternal lines with
the Sons of the American Revolution. In early life his father became a New York banker
but for several years has lived retired and he and his wife, at the ages of eighty-five and
eighty-four years respectively, are now residents of New York -city.
•fudge Allen was educated in the schools of his native city, of Connecticut and of New
Jersey and ifterward went with his parents to Germany, where he studied for three years.
Later he continued his studies in Paris until the outbreak of the Franco-Prussian war,
when he returned to this country. He subsequently entered Princeton University and was
graduated with the class of 1881. winning the civil engineer's degree.
It was in the summer of 1883 that Judge Allen first visited Dakota. After reaching tlie
territory he readily recognized the advantages which the new country offered to a young
man and which made strong appeal to him. He determined to remain and after traveling
over the state in search of a favorable location settled at Lisbon, where he has since made
his home. Subsequently he took up the study of law and was admitted to practice in 1886.
For some years he practiced independently and then entered into partnership with Hon. P. H.
Rourke. with whom he was associated for some time. In 1886 he was elected probate judge
and served for two or three terras and at a later date he became county judge with increased
jurisdiction, remaining upon the bench of that court for a number of terms. He has filled
various minor offices but his activities have usually been put forth along the line of his pro-
fession and in 1904 he was elected judge of the fourth district court and through the inter-
vening period of twelve years has remained upon the bench, widely recognized as one of
the most capable and distinguished district judges of the state. Devotedly attached to his
profession, systematic and methodical in habit, sober and discreet in judgment, calm in
temper, diligent in research, conscientious in the discharge of every duty, courteous and
kind in demeanor and inflexibly just on all occasions, these qualities have enabled him to
52 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
take liist rank among those who have held high judicial office in North Dakota and made
him the conservator of that justice wherein is the safeguard of individual liberty and hap-
piness and the defense of our national institutions. Aside from his judicial service Judge
Allen has been a member of the State Normal School board for several years and has put
forth eli'ective and earnest cfTort for advancing the interests of those institutions.
On the 1st of .September, I.SSG, .Judge Allen was joined in wedlock to Miss Mary L.
Taft, of Ballston Spa, Saratoga county. New York, by whom he lias a son and two daugli-
ters, namely: Grace, who is a graduate of the State Normal School at Valley City and is
now a teacher in the Fargo city schools; Kathoryn, a graduate of the North Dakota State
University at Fargo and now a teacher in the public schools; and Frank Taft, a soplioniore
in the University of North Dakota at Grand Forks.
In his political belief .Judge Allen has ever been a stalwart republican but partisanship
is never allowed to interfere with the faithful performance of his judicial duties. In religious
belief he is a Baptist, while his wife is an Episcopalian. Fraternallj' he is connected with
Sheyenne Valley Lodge, No. 12, A. F. & A. M. ; Lisbon Chapter, R. A. M. ; and Ivanohe Cora-
mandery, K. T. His life is an exemplification of the high principles and purposes of Masonry.
Earnest efi'ort. close application and the exercise of his native talents have won Judge
Allen prestige as a lawyer and jurist, a fact which is highly complimentary, for the state
bar has numbered many eminent and prominent men.
HON. E. H. IIOLTE.
Hon. E. II. Holte, a resident of Noble township, Cass county, is a public spirited and
progressive citizen who has been called upon to fill various ofl!ices of honor and trust, the
duties of which he has discharged in a most capable and satisfactory manner. He deserves
to be classed with those self-made men to whom opportunity has been the road to success.
Opportunity lies before all but it taimtingly plays before the dreamer and surrenders only
to the man of resolute will and well clclincd ])urpose. These qualities Mr. Holte possesses in
large measure.
A native of Norway, he was born March 2'^, ISfiO, a son of Hans 0. and Elcne (Bjerke)
Holte, who were also natives of that country, whence they came to America in ISO".), mak-
ing their way to Wilmington, Houston county, Minnesota. There they resided until 1878,
in which year they became pioneer settlers of Noble township, Cass county. North Dakota,
purchasing the farm u])on which their son E. H. Holte now resides. Subsequently the
fatlier took up his abode in Fargo, where he passed away in 1909, while his widow still
survives at the advanced age of eighty-five years. In their family were eight children and
theirs is a remarkable record, for none have passed away.
E. H. Holte was a little lad of nine summers when he accompiinied his parents to the
new world and his boyhood and yoiith were afterward i)assed in Minnesota and in North
Dakota, his experiences in early life being those which usually fall to the farm lad who
assists in the work of the fields and divides his time between that and the duties of the
school room. He accpiircd a high-school education and afterward gave his undivided atten-
tion to farm work until 1891, when he started out in life for himself. He has since car-
ried on general agricultural pursuits ami is now the owner of four hundred and twenty-
two acres of valuable and productive land on sections 26, .35 and 3G, Noble township, Cass
county. He is regarded as one of the enterprising, progressive agriculturists of this part
of the state, having highly cultivated his fields, while to his farm he has added many fine
buildings and other modern improvements. In addition to tilling the soil he raises stock
and both branches of his business are proving profitable, for his interests are systemat-
ically and wisely conducted. He is also one of the directors of the First State Bank at
Perley, Minnesota, and is jiresidcnt of the Farmers Elevator there.
Mr. Holte was married December 9, 1891. to Miss Alma Schow, a native of Norway and
a daughter of Martin and Dorothea (IJjerke) Schow, who were likewise natives of Nor-
way. In 1867 they emigrated to America and first located in Fillmore county, Minnesota.
In 1870 they took up their abode upon a farm on section 24, Noble township, Cass county,
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 53
whereon the father erected a log cabin. Both spent their remaining days here, the father
passing away in 190G, while the mother, surviving for a few years, departed this life in
1914. Their family ■ numbered nine children, of whom seven survive. To Mr. and Mrs.
Holte have been born a son and daughter: Melvin H., who is a graduate of the college at
Moorhead, Minnesota, and is at home; and Delia Esther Mathilde, who is also with her
parents.
The parents are members of the Lutheran church, in the work of which they are
actively and helpfully interested and Mr. Holte is serving as chairman of the board of
trustees. In his political views he is an earnest republican and has been called upon to
fill various offices. He served for one term as county assessor, has been a member of the
board of supervisors for many years and has also been justice of the peace, in which con-
nection he rendered decisions that were strictly fair and impartial. For twenty years he has
served on the school board and is a strong champion of the cause of education, believing
the common school system to be one of the bulwarks of the nation. In 1903 he was elected
register of deeds and by reelection was continued in office for three successive terms,
making a most creditable record. In 1890 he was elected to the state legislature, where he
served most acceptably, giving careful consideration to all questions which came up for
settlement. He has ever regarded a public office as a public trust and it is well known
that no trust reposed in Mr. Holte has ever been betrayed in the slightest degree. In a
word he stands as one of the leading and valued citizens of Cass county, his personal char-
acteristics winning him popularity, his friends in this part of the state being almost as
numerous as his acquaintances. He has lived in the county since 1878 and has therefore
long been a witness of its growth and progress, taking a deep interest in all that pertains
to the general good.
ORRIN M. PIERCE.
Orrin M. Pierce, treasurer of the jSIinot Grocery Company, conducting a wholesale busi-
ness, is one of the executive committee at Minot of the World's Permanent Peace Association
and is thus active in C9ncerns which have to do with the welfare not only of city and state
but of the world at large. He was born at Rock Island, Illinois, October 20, 1875, a son of
Orrin S. and Belle (Milligan) Pierce, who were natives of Illinois, the former born at
Elizabeth, September 6, 1847. He engaged in the steamboat business on the lower Missis-
sippi river in early life and afterward became connected with the grain trade. He removed
from Rock Island, Illinois, to La Crosse, Wisconsin, afterward to Winona, Minnesota, and
still later to Minneapolis, where he now resides, being associated at the present time with
the Atlas Elevator Company. He is a veteran of the Civil war, having enlisted when
about seventeen years of age at Springfield, Illinois, in an Illinois regiment, with which he
served for eighteen months. He was corporal of tlic guard which placed the guards around
Lincoln's tomb. He was never wounded nor did illness confine him in the hospital. His
wife, who was born November 29, 1850, passed away March 22, 1899.
When fourteen years of age Orrin M. Pierce took his initial step in the business world,
securing employment in the Second National Bank at Winona, Minnesota, in which institu-
tion he advanced from the position of office boy to paying teller, there remaining for eleven
years. He was afterward discount clerk at the First National Bank at Crookston, Minne-
sota, for two years and later came to Minot, where he secured the position of credit mana-
ger with the Minot Grocery Company and .still continues in that capacity. He has also
become treasurer of the company, which controls one of the foremost commercial enterprises
in this part of the state. Mr. Pierce has become financially interested in the business, which
includes sixty wholesale houses in various parts of the country. The firm at Minot does a
general jobbing business in groceries and fruits and employs a force of thirty people. Mr.
Pierce is likewise an extensive landowner in North Dakota and his realty holdings include
residence property in Minot.
Mr. Pierce is a veteran of the Spanish-American war. He enlisted April 20, 1898, in the
Twelfth Minnesota Infantry as a member of Company C, went to St. Paul and thence to
;-)4 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
Cliickuniuuga and was later detailed to the band. He was niusteied out November 0, 189S,
and received an honorable discharge.
On the 22d of December, 1904, Mr. Pierce was united in marriage to Miss Editha Babcock
Payne, a native of Winona, Minnesota, and a daughter of George W. and Sophronia (Babcock)
Payne, the former born in Virginia in February, 1842, and the latter at Homer, New Yorlc,
in February, 1844. George W. Payne, who was successfully engaged in business as an
implement dealer, passed away in Winona, Minnesota, while tlie demise of his wife occurred
while she was visiting our subject in Minot.
Mr. Pierce was reared in the Presbyterian church but attends tlie Episcopal church and
in politics ho is an independent rep\iblican. He has never held a political ofTice, never solic-
ited or asked for office nor entered politics. Fraternally he is connected with the Elks lodge
at Minot, of which he has served as esquire. He also belongs to Harmony Council, No. 15,
of the Modern Samaritans at Winona, Minnesota, and to the United Commercial Travelers
No. 277, at Minot, of which he is an ex-guide. The interests of Mr. Pierce are broad and
varied and his activities have been of a nature which have furthered the public welfare
along many lines and the town of Orrin in Pierce county was named in his honor. Inter-
ested in the great international problems which are before the world today, he has become
a strong advocate of the peace movement and is now serving as one of the executive com-
mittee of the World's Permanent Peace Association at Minot. He is now taking a most
helpful part in the plan of educating the masses as to the futility of war. This association
had its origin in Minot, with Mr. Pierce as one of the founders, and the movement is extend-
ing largely. At the same time ^Ir. Pierce is one of the representative business men of his
community, alert, enterprising and progressive, and in a word he carries forward to success-
ful completion whatever he undertakes.
WALTER R. REED.
Several important corporate interests feel the stimulus and profit by the enterprise
and business ability of Walter R. Reed, who is at once a man forceful and resourceful,
recognizing and utilizing opportunities that others pass heedlessly by. Industry, close ap-
plication and determination have brought him Into prominent connections and he is now
known as an executive officer in various companies, including the Amenia & Sharon
Land Company, of which he has boon president and general manager since 1912.
A native of New England, Mr. Reed was born in Litchfield county, Connecticut, .July 2,
1871, a son of John H. and Florence (Chaffee) Reed, both of whom were representatives of
old New England families which were represented in the Revolutionary war. Walter K.
Reed is a great-grandson of Eliakim Reed, one of the signers of the "Association," and a
great-grandson of Simeon Edgerton, a captain of the Revolutionary war in the Connecticut
line. The grandmother of Mr. Reed in the paternal line was of Knickerbocker Dutch stock
and her emigrant ancestor was treasurer of New Amsterdam under Peter Stuyvcsant. tlie
first Dutch governor of New York, and he owned a peach orchard where lower Broadway
of New York city is now located. John H. Reed was a native of the Empire state, while
his wife was born in Connecticut. She died when her son Walter was but nine years of
age and three years later the father with his three children came west to North Dakota,
settling at Amenia, where his father-in-law, Ebcn W. Chafi'ee. was the pioneer resident,
arriving there in 1875. He became one of the founders of the Amenia & Sharon Land
Company, of which he was made manager, continuing in that position until about the time
of his death, which occurred in 1893. He had much to do with shaping the development and
activities of this section of the state and was a most prominent and influential citizen.
Following the arrival of Jolin H. Reed at Amenia he, too, became actively associated with
the Amenia & Sharon Land Company, with which he continued until 1910 and since that
time he has lived retired, residing with his daughter, Mrs. W. W. Brown, in Amenia town-
ship, Cass county. He is classed with the representative and valued citizens of the district.
Walter R. Reed was reared at home, acquiring his education in the public schools and
also under private tutors in Connecticut. He afterward had the advantage of pursuing a
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 55
I
course in Obeilin College at Obeilin, Ohio, for three years, and when his studies were com-
pleted he returned to Amenia and became actively associated with the Amenia & Sharon
Land Company, of which he was made treasurer in 1892. He then bent his energies to
administrative direction and executive control and in 1912 he was elected president and
general manager of the company. He has since directed its policy and his enterprising
efforts, keen business sagacity and sound judgment have been salient features in the
success which has attended the undertaking that was established by his grandfather more
than forty years ago. The company was organized by bond holders of the Union Pacific
Railroad Company in 1875 and E. W. Chaflfee and Edward Gridley were sent to Cass county
to locate lands. They selected all the railroad land in Amenia township and in Walburg
township and six sections in Gill township. The name of the company was taken from the
towns of Amenia, New York, and Sharon, Connecticut, where the original stockholders
resided, and the company operates grain elevators at Amenia, Cliaffee, Mason, Newman
and Ripon. In 1911 the company was reorganized under the laws of North Dakota and in
1913 Mr. Reed succeeded to the presidency upon the death of H. F. Chaffee, who was one
of the victims of the Titanic disaster. He is also the president of the Miller-Chaffee-Reed
Company, holding and dealing in farm lands, the two companies controlling about forty
thousand acres. His business activity also extends to other undertakings which are valuable
assets in the development of this part of the state. He is president of the Amenia Elevator
Company, operating twenty-five elevators in different parts of the country, and he is the
president of the John Miller Company, a grain commission firm at Duluth and Minneapolis,
which was established by ex-Governor John Miller, H. F. Cliaffee and Walter R. Reed.
All these interests show Mr. Reed to be a man of resourceful business ability, possessing sound
judgment and unfaltering enterprise and carrying forward to successful completion what-
ever he undertakes. He ever recognizes the fact that when one avenue of opportunity
seems closed he can carve out another path that will lead to the desired goal.
In 1898 Mr. Reed was married to Miss Inetta Gowland, of Amenia. This union has been
blessed with two daughters, Eleanor P. and Elizabeth. Mr. Reed gives his political allegiance
to the republican party and as every true American citizen should do, keeps well informed on
the questions and issues of the day, so that he is ready to support his position by intelligent
argument. In fraternal circles he is well known, holding membership with Casselton Lodge,
No. 3, A. F. & A. M.; Casselton Cliapter, No. 2, R. A. M.; Fargo Council, No. 1, R. & S. M.;
Auvergne Commandery, No. 2, K. T.; Dakota Consistory, No. 1, A. & A. S. R. ; and El Zagal
Temple, A. A. O. N. M. S. He is likewise an Odd Fellow, belonging to Colfax Lodge, No. 7,
at Casselton. Mr. Reed is also a member of the Sons of the American Revolution and he
and his wife hold membership in the Congi'egational church, guiding their lives according
to its teachings and at all times measuring up to high standards. They occupy a pleasant
home in Amenia, which is attractive by reason of its warm hearted hospitality and good
cheer and their circle of friends is almost coextensive with the circle of their acquaintance.
Mr. Reed belongs to that class of men who have done much to further public progress,
for in advancing individual interests he also promotes public prosperity.
IRA D. WIGHT.
Ira D. Wight, who is making an excellent record as branch house manager for the
Stone-Ordean-Wells Company at Minot, was born in Ithaca, Michigan, on the 25th of
May, 1878. His parents, William R. and Frances (Dean) Wight, were born respectively in
Ohio in 1856 and in Benton county, Michigan, in 1857. The father engaged in farming
during his early life but later removed to Chicago, where he turned his attention to printing,
with which business he is at present connected in Rogers Park. He takes the interest of
a good citizen in public affairs but has never aspired to office.
Ira D. Wight, who is the elder of two children, attended school at Ithaca, Michigan,
and at Cliicago and when sixteen years of age entered the employ of Wells & Company,
wholesale dealers in shoes, with whom he remained for three years, after which he became
connected with Swift & Company, of Chicago, for a year. He then went to Hancock,
56 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
Miohigaii, where lie was in tlic employ of E. M. Lieblein, a wholesale grocer, from 1900
until 1908. In the latter yciir he became a representative of the Stone-Ordcan-Wells
Company, dealers in wholesale groceries, and continued at Hancock for two years longer,
after which, in September, 1910, he removed to Minot, North Dakota. He is now branch
house nuinager for the Stone-Ordean-Wclls Company and his thorough knowledge of the
business, combined with his natural ability, makes him very elKcient in that capacity.
He has become recognized as a factor in the business development of the town and is num-
bered among its valued citizens.
Mr. Wight was married on the 20th of August, 1898, to Miss Frances Fletcher, who
was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and is a daughter of James J. and Caroline (Kandall)
Fletcher, both natives of Woodstock, Ontario, Canada. About 1875 they removed to the
States and located in Iowa, where the father was engaged as a machinist for many years.
Subsequently he removed to Rogers Pajk, Chicago, where he died in 1913. His wife passed
away in 1908. Mr. and Mrs. Wight have three children. Florence Mildred, born .June 9, 1903;
Ira D., Jr., born May 26, 1907; and William Reuben, born December 29, 1910, all at home.
Mr. Wight is an independent republican but has never taken a very active part in
politics. Fraternally he is connected with Minot Lodge, No. 1081, B. P. 0. E., with the
Knights of Pythias and with the Ancient Order of United Workmen, all of Minot. He
devotes his entire time to the management of the interests intrusted to his care and has
increased substantially the business of the branch house of which he is manager. He is
president and a director of the Minot Association of Commerce.
HON. PATRICK H. ROURKE.
Hon. Patrick H. Rourke, one of the foremost attorneys of North Dakota, Residing in
Lisbon, was born in Norristown, Pennsylvania, October 28, 1854, and is a son of William
and Mary (Curran) Rourke, who were natives of Queens county, Ireland, and of Pennsylvania
respectively. When a young man the father came to the United States, settling in Penn-
sylvania in 1842. Subsequently he married there and in 1856 removed with his wife and
five children to Petersburg, Menard county, Illinois, where he resided until the spring of
1870. In that year he became a resident of Logan county, where he passed away in 1879.
His widow survives at the age of eighty-six years and makes her home in Lincoln, Illinois.
She reared a family of thirteen children and she still does the cooking for the members of
her household, being a remarkably well preserved woman. Mr. Rourke was an iron worker
in Pennsylvania and after his removal to Illinois followed the occupation of farming.
Hon. Patrick If. Rourke supplemented his district school education by a year's study in
the Valparaiso (Ind.) Normal School. He remained upon the home farm until March 30, 1880,
when he took up the study of law in the office of R. N. Stevens at Petersburg, Illinois. He
was admitted to the bar on the 20th of !March. 1882, in Chicago aiul subsequent to that date
became a law partner of his former preceptor, but on the 17th of May, 18S2, removed to
Lisbon, North Dakota, where he opened a branch office for the firm, his partner, Mr. Stevens,
remaining in the Petersburg office. After two years, however, or in 1884, he also went
to Lisbon and the firm won prominence in professional circles. Mr. Stevens was a member
of the constitutional eonventiim in 1SS9 and was subsequently elected a member of the
first state legislature.
The firm dissolved partnership in 1880. after which Mr. Roinke practiced independently
for three years. In 1889 he entered into ])artneishi]) with the present district judge. F. P.
Allen, which association was severed in 1891, after which !Mr. Rourke jiracticed independently
for about ten years. In 1900 he formed a partnership with A, JI. Kvello and eight years
later Sidney D. Adams was admitted to the firm and remained a member thereof for three
years, at the end of which time he withdrew and went to Florida. Later, however, he
returned to Lisbon and again became a member of the firm under the style of Rourke, Kvello
Si Adams. They arc accorded a liberal and distinctively representative clientage and a
thorough preparation of cases combined with an iiitinuitc knowledge of legal principles has
HOX. PATRiav H. ROURKE
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 59
biouglit Mr. Rouike notable success at a bar which has numbered many distinguished
members.
Mr. Eourke lias been married three times, his first wife being Mary Harter. For his
second wife he cliose Rose Gardner and to them were born three children, Curran G., Grattan
L. and Mary, all at home. In May, 1915, Mr. Rourke wedded Mrs. Fred Rimmerman, who
in her maidenhood was Miss Betty Talbott, of Lincoln, Illinois.
Mr. Rourke is identified with Sheyenne Valley Lodge, No. 13, F. & A. M.; with
Lisbon Chapter, No. 7, R. A. M.; with Ivanhoe Commandery, K. T. ; and with the consistory
and the Mystic Shrine at Fargo. He was made a Mason in Illinois, in the same lodge in
which Abraham Lincoln was initiated into the order. Mrs. Rourke is a member of the
Episcopal church. Mr. Rourke gives his political allegiance to the republican party and was
the first city attorney of Lisbon, filling that office in the years' 1883 and 1884. He was
elected county attorney and served for eight years and was next elected state senator,
serving for four years. Prior to the expiration of his term he was appointed United States
district attorney, in which important capacity he continued for sixteen years. He was
mayor of Lisbon, county attorney, state senator and United States district attorney all at
the same time. He understood fully the duties of each office and thoroughly met every
requirement, making a most excellent record as a public official. For a third of a century
his name has stood as a synonym of the progressive element in his community and his work
has at all times been a beneficial element in the state.
JUDGE KALITA ELTON LEIGHTON.
Judge Kalita Elton Leighton, who since January, 1911, has served upon the bench of
the eighth judicial district, is accounted one of the foremost jurists of the state. His com-
prehensive knowledge of the law was manifest in private practice and his ability in that
direction led to his selection for judicial honors. He was born in Putnam county, Mis-
souri, September 13, 1871, a son of Jacob and Laura (Anderson) Leighton. The father
was born in Illinois, in 1830, and the mother in Lee county, Iowa, December 3, 1847.
Throughout his entire life Mr. Leighton followed the occupation of farming and in
1877 removed to Iowa, where he continued to reside until his death in 1898. In the
year 1901 the mother became a resident of Minot, North Dakota, where she still makes her
home. During the early period of his residence in Iowa, Mr. Leighton served as county
commissioner and at the time of the Civil war his loyalty to his country was manifest by
his enlistment as a private of Company I, Sixteenth Iowa Regiment, which was attached to
Crocker's Iowa Brigade. He served during the last year of the war and sufifered largely
from diseases common abong the soldiers. He went with Sherman on the celebrated march
to the sea and took part in several important engagements.
Judge Leighton was an only child. He attended school at Allerton, Iowa, and for two
years was a student in the Highland Park Normal College at Des Moines, after which he
entered the law department of the University of Iowa, from which he was graduated in
1896. He had resided at home until twenty years of age, after which he was away attend-
ing school for two years, then taught school for one winter and in 1894 entered the Uni-
versity, in which he prepared for the legal profession. A year after his graduation he
began practice at Allerton and subsequently followed his profession at Mystic, Iowa, for
two years. He then came to Minot, where he opened an office and continued in the general
practice of law with growing success. Few lawyers have made a more lasting impression
upon the bar of the state both for legal ability of a high order and for the individuality
of a personal character which impresses itself upon a community. The zeal with which he
devoted his energies to his profession, the careful regard evinced for the interests of his
clients and an assiduous and unrelaxing attention to all the details of his cases brought
him a large business and made him very successful in its conduct. He was then chosen for
judicial iionors, being elected to the bench of the eighth judicial district, assuming the
duties of the office in .January, 1911. His course as a judge has been in harmony with his
record as a man and a lawyer, distinguished by a masterful grasp of every problem pre-
60 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
sented for solution and by the spii-it of unfaltering fidelity to duty. The only other office
that he has held is that of member of the city council of Minot for a short time, for he has
had no ambition in the line of office seeking outside the strict path of his profession.
On the 25th of December, 1901, Judge Leighton was united in marriage to Miss Belle
Lockman, a native of Drakcsville, Iowa, and a daughter of William and AUie (Scantling)
Lockman, who were also born in the Hawkeye state. The father, who was engaged in
business as a merchant, passed away in Iowa in 1898, but the mother still survives and now
makes her home in Jlinot. Judge and Mrs. Leighton have four children, as follows: Roy,
whose birth occurred October 19, 1902; Will, born October 15, 1905; Inez, whose natal day
was June 12, 1908; and Barbara, who was born December 2, 1911.
Judge Leighton holds membership with the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks
at Minot and with the Modern Woodmen of America. In politics he is an independent re-
publican, well versed on the questions and issues of the day, stanch in his advocacy of
principles that he believes to be factors in good government and just as stronglj- opposed
to any movement which he deems inimical to the public welfare. He holds to high profes-
sional standards and ever endeavors to serve the ends of justice, his decisions bting marked
by a strict impartiality and freedom from personal prejudice.
JUDGE WILLIAM MURRAY.
Judge Willfam Murray, of Minot, who is occupying the bench of Ward county, lias an
excellent record as a jurist, being not only well informed as to the law but also possessing
the necessary qualities of an impartial and an unbiased mind. His birth occurred in Locker-
bie, Dumfriesshire, Scotland, on the 22d of December, 1853, and he is a son of James and
Jennie Johnstone (Barber) Murray, both of whom are also natives of that place, where they
passed their entire lives. The father was a woolen manufacturer and was held in high
esteem in his community. They were the parents of four children, of whom our subject is
the eldest.
William Murraj' received his education in the schools of his native town but when sixteen
years of age became apprenticed to a joiner. After completing his apprenticeship of five years
he worked as a foreman joiner for twelve years, after which, in 1886, he removed to Winni-
peg, Canada, where he followed his trade until the 8th of August, 1887, when he came to
North Dakota and settled at Minot. At that time there were no houses there, only tents, and
all around stretched the unbroken prairie. He became car carpenter for the Great Northern
Railroad and remained with that company for eighteen years and four months, during whicii
time he held the position of car foreman. While engaged in railroad work he devoted hia
leisure time to the study of law in the office of James Johnson and in 190C passed the re-
quired examination at Grand Forks and was admitted to the bar of the state. He at once
began the practice of law and in time gained a good clientage. While still connected with
the railroad he served as police magistrate for twenty -two years and as county judge for
twelve years. In 1912, when reelected county judge, he resigned as magistrate in order to
give his entire attention to his duties as judge. In the trial of cases he seeks to ascertain all
of the facts on both sides and in his decisions is guided solely by the law applicable to the
cases in question, allowing no personal considerations to influence him. His course has
gained him the commendation of the bar and of the general public alike, and his decisions
have seldom been reversed by the appellate courts.
Judge Murray is a republican and believes firmly in the wisdom of the policies of that
party. For five years he was a member of the board of education and for four years he held
the office of city assessor, while prior to his reelection as county judge he was county justice
for two years. His service as police magistrate covered twenty-two years and nine months,
his long retention in that office indicating his efficiency and fairness. For eighteen years he
served on the insanity board of Ward county, for ten years was a member of the board of
health and for four years was visitor to the county farm, and there is no phase of public
affairs in which he does not take a keen hitfiest. He is connected with the Masonic lodge
and chapter and the Eastern .Star at Minot, and he has served in all of the chairs of the
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 61
lodge and as secretary of the chapter for two years. He is also connected with the Elks,
the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, in which he has held office; the Knights of Pythias;
the Eagles; and the Ancient Order of United Workmen. He is one of the oldest members
of the Knights of Pythias lodge, has held all of the chairs and in 1898 was representative to
the Grand Lodge of North Dakota. He was the first president of the aerie of the Eagles,'
which office he held for four years, was for one year deputy grand president for the state of
North Dakota and for three years was representative to the Grand Aerie. He is also
prominent in the Ancient Order of United Workmen, being the first master workman and
liaving served in 1908 as representative to the Grand Lodge. He is well known in fraternal
circles throughout the state and in his life exemplifies the principle of brotherhood, which is
at the basis of all of the above organizations. During the many years of his residence in
Jlinot he has witnessed a great transformation as the little settlement of the early days
has given place to the busy and growing city of today, and he takes justifiable pride in the
fact that he has been a factor in bringing about the development of the town.
Judge Murray was united in marriage on the 17th of July, 1877, to Jliss Sarah Cowan,
who was born at Lockerbie, Dumfriesshire, Scotland, and is a daughter of Archibald and
I'jlizabeth (Saunders) Cowan, likewise natives of that place, where both passed their entire
lives. Judge and Mrs. Murray have become the parents of six children, namely: Elizabeth
C, who is deputy county clerk ; Jennie .Johnstone, the wife of William J. Norbert, a traveling
salesman for Foley Brothers & Kelley; Sarah, who became the wife of Fred Herrick, of the
Minot Grocery, and who died May 30, 1908; James A., who was the youngest locomotive
engineer in the United States and is now an automobile expert and who married Miss Jennie
Hanson; Agnes, who died in Scotland at the age of three years; and William, who died in
infancy in Minot.
HENRY L. HANSON.
One of the enterprising citizens of Prosper is Henry L. Hanson, who is there engaged in
merchandising and is also filling the position of postmaster. He possesses a resolute spirit
and unfaltering energy and carries forward to successful completion whatever he undertakes,
so that his identification with a movement is an indication of its prosperous outcome. Mr.
Hanson is a representative citizen of the northwest and Cass countj' numbers him among her
native sons, his birth having occurred in Berlin township, that county, on the lltli of August,
1886. His parents were Lars and Sena (Hanson) Hanson, both of whom were natives of
Norway and as children were brought by their respective parents to the new world about
1868. Lars Hanson became a resident of Wisconsin and afterward removed to North Dakota,
where the family cast in their lot with the early pioneer settlers of Cass county. Following;
liis marriage to Sena Hanson they settled upon a farm in Berlin township and later removed
to Harwood township, where Mr. Hanson continued to engage in general agricultural pursuits
until his death, which occurred February 5, 1893. His widow afterward removed to Harwood
and in connection with her son Henry established a small store there. Later they were joined
by Mr. Solmonson and purchased the business of M. Carmine, the enterprise being then con-
ducted under the firm style of Hanson & Solmonson. That relation was maintained until
January 1, 1912, when the store at Harwood was sold and the firm established their present
business in Prosper, where they have since enjoyed a large and growing patronage.
Henry L. Hanson was educated in the common schools of Cass county and his early
training developed in him those traits of character which have constituted important features
in his growing prosperity. He was only eighteen years of age when he became connected
with merchandising as a partner of his mother and with the business he has since been identi-
fied, as previously indicated. The firm has the only general store at Prosper, carrying an
extensive and attractive line of goods neatly and tastefully arranged so as to attract the
attention of their patrons. Their business methods will bear the closest investigation and
scrutiny and their success is founded upon integrity as well as industry'. While living at
Harwood Mr. Hanson served as postmaster for three years and has been postmaster at
Prosper since taking up his abode in that town. The firm of which he is a member erected
62 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
the first building in Prosper save a warehouse, and their mercantile interests have constituted
an important feature in the jirowtli or" the town. In addition to his other interests Mr. Hanson
is a stockholder in and secretary of the Equity Klevator & Trading Company of Prosper.
Mr. Hanson was married March 15, 191(i, to Miss Xettie .lolmson, of Harwood, Cass
county, North Dakota, a dauf.'htcr of C. A. .Tohnson, wlio was a i)rominent farmer and an old
pioneer in Kayniond township, Cass county, Mr. .Johnson died in the spring of 1914.
In his political views Mr. Hanson is a republican, giving earnest support to the party
yet never seeking or desiring oilice. He belongs to the lodge of American Yeomen. His
activities, however, have been largely confined to his business interests, which have won him
place with the representative men of the community. Close application and energj" have
guided him in his various lelations and the success whicli lie has achieved is the merited
reward of his elVorts.
MA.IOR M. L. EXGLE.
Major M. L. Engle, farmer, real estate dealer, merchant and statesman, ranked with
Xorth Dakota's foremost citizens and his demise removed from Xorth Dakota one whose
value was widely recognized. He was born in Allegany county, New York, in 1843 and
came of (ierniau ancestry. He supplemented a common scliool education with an aca-
demic course and about the time that he leached young manhood the Civil war began and
he became coniu'cted with tlie commissary of tlie Union army. After spending two years
in that way he entered tlie odice of the American Express Company at Auburn, Xew
York, and remained in that connection for several years. In 1875 he tumed his attention
to merchandising and money loaning at Fricndsliip, Xew York, where he successfully
conducted business for five years.
In 1881 Major Engle came to Xorth Dakota, settling at Lisbon, at wliicli time there
were not more than twenty buildings of any d(scripti(m in tl'.e town. The beauty of the
location ajipealed to liim. however, and his unfailing business judgment foretold the future
development of the rich agricultural section surr()un<ling the city. He invested in land
soon after his arrival, being associated in the undertaking witli a brother-in-law. George
\V. Robinson, now a jirominent real estate dealer of Bufi'alo, Xew York. They secured two
sections near the present site of Englevale, twelve miles southwest of Lisbon, and they
subsequently increased their holdings to two thousand acres. Mr. Engle became an exten-
sive wheat grower, cultivating from seven hundred to one thousand acres of wheat, and
notable success attended his <'ll'orts in this direction. Extending his labors into other fields,
he became one of the organizers of the State Bank of Lisbon and was made a member of
its board of directors, his o]>inions carrying weight in its councils and jiroving an clcnu'iit
in the successful nmnagement of the bank.
Major Engle"s sympathies were always witli the democratic jiarty but liis rare busi-
ness judgment caused him to vote for the man best qualified for office rather than to guide
his franchise through party alliliation. In 1883 he was elected to the board of county
commissioners for a three years' term and in 1886 was reelected to that office, serving as
chairman of the board for five years, during which period his marked business ability was
manifest as largely in behalf of the county's interests as in the control of his private busi-
ness affairs. A prominent citizen of Ransom county, speaking of him later, said: "Xo
scheme brought before that board while lie was one of the members ever prospcreil if it
had not the i-lenients of fair dealing for all the co\inty, and if it was a job got up to benefit
some individual or clique at the expense of the community at large he killed it as dead as
a mackerel no matter who was behind it. He was fearless and outspoken and as true as
steel." In 1890 Major Engle was elected a member of the state senate for a four years'
term and it was he who secured the passage of the bill giving the first and second appropria-
tions of ten thousand dollars each for the erection of the Soldiers Home at Lisbon. He
offered to put up a bond of fifty thousand dollars for the furnishing of a site, and his
labors were directly resultant in establishing and promoting the .Soldiers Home in Lisbon.
His popularity will be better understood when mention is made of the fact that he received
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 63
the vote of liis party foi- United States senator in the famous senatorial contest of 1891.
He was always recognized as a stanch and true friend and a generous enemy. The spirit of
the man is indicated in the following incident. Once,' feeling himself deeply wronged by a
man, and being told of an opportunity to retaliate, he said: "No, that would place me on
his level." Such was his standard of character throughout life.
Soon after becoming a resident of Lisbon Major Engle took active part in organizing
the Masonic lodge of that place and assisted in naming it Sheyenne Valley Lodge. He
became one of its charter members, transferring his membership from Allegany Lodge,
No. 235, F. & A. M., at Friendship, New York. He was also a member of the chapter and
commandery and was ever active in Masonic work.
It was in 1874 that Major Engle was united in maniage to Miss Winifred Robinson,
who has been equally active with her husband in the public life of the community, although
naturally along different lines. She is very prominent in club circles and was one of the
charter members and prime movers in the organization of the Woman's Club of Lisbon,
which was formed in 1892 and which joined the State Federation in 1897. It was organized
with a membership of thirty, of whom only three are now members. Mrs. Engle served as
president of the club for two terms and has been vice president of her district of the state
organization. She is also a member of the Civic League and on the advisory board. She
belongs as well to the Suffrage League, of which she is secretary, and she has membership
in Minerva Chapter, No. 63, 0. E. S., and with the Pythian Sisters and the Brotherhood of
American Yoemen. Her religious faith is indicated in her membership in the Holy Trinity
Episcopal church and her influence has been of far-reaching effect, characterized by help-
fulness and uplift at every point. The married life of Major and Mrs. Engle was most
harmonious in its purpose and intent, in its interests and accomplishment, and death sep-
arated them on the 25th of April, 1908, when Major Engle passed to the home beyond. He
was buried with Masonic honors, the interment being made at his old home at Angelica,
New York. In his passing Lisbon lost one of its most public-spirited and beloved citizens
and so highly was he esteemed and honored in his community and in his state that the
news of his demise brought a sense of personal bereavement to all who knew him.
THEODORE KYLLO.
Theodore Kyllo, who is engaged in general farming on section 13, Raymond township,
has a well developed and well improved property, owning and cultivating three hundred
and twenty acres of land and for the past twelve years operating a threshing outfit. He
is a native of Waupaca county, Wisconsin, born October 21, 1867, and comes of Norwegian
ancestry. His parents, Peter and Gunald Kyllo, were both natives of Norway and came
to the United States immediately following the Civil war, crossing the ocean on a sailing
vessel which was five weeks in completing the voyage. They took up their abode in Wau-
paca, Wisconsin, but afterward removed to Pope county, Minnesota, where they settled
upon a farm. In 1871 they arrived in North Dakota, being among the earliest of the
pioneer residents in the state. There were no railroads in this district at the time of their
arrival and all around them could be seen the rolling prairies, giving little evidence of the
handiwork of man. On his arrival Mr. Kyllo homesteaded eighty acres in Reed township,
Cass county, at which time there were but three or four other settlers in the township. A
little later he purchased eighty acres of land adjoining the home place and subsequently
took up one hundred and sixty acres as a tree claim. To this he afterward added forty
acres by purchase, so that his holdings embraced three hundred and sixty acres. With
characteristic energy he began to till and improve his farm, which his labors soon converted
into rich and productive fields. He lived upon that place until the death of his wife in 1896,
after which he disposed of his holdings and subsequently made his home with his sons,
passing away in 1907.
Theodore Kyllo was reared under the parental roof, spending his youthful days in the
usual manner of farm lads, his time being divided between the acquirement of an educa-
tion in the district schools and work on the home farm. He was but nine years of age,
64 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
however, when he began to assist iu the labors of the fields, plowing with a yoke of oxoii.
He continued on the old home place until a year after his mother's death and while there
residing he purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land, which he afterward traded for
the tree claim that had been taken up by his father. He never lived upon the tree claim but
cultivated it and in addition rented three hundred and twenty acres. His life has been a
busy and useful one and his work as an agriculturist has brought good results. In 1900 he
located upon his present farm, which he had purchased the year before. He now owns
three hundred and twenty acres of excellent land and is numbered among the substantial
farmers of Cass county.
Mr. Kyllo has been married twice. In 1899 he wedded Miss Olina Waugh, of Keed
township, her father being Torger Waugh. one of the early pioneers of that township. She
passed away in 1903, leaving one child, Richard L. In 1905 Mr. Kyllo was again married,
his second union being with Miss Minnie Halverson, of Iowa, by whom he had five children,
four of whom still survive, namely: Gilbert T., Archie M., Ethel L. and Pearl M.
Mr. Kyllo exercises his right of franchise in support of the men and measures of the
republican party and is somewhat active along that line. He is serving at the present time
as a member of the board of township trustees and is also a member of the school board.
He holds membership with the Sons of Norway and he and his wife are members of the
Norwegian Lutheran church, to the teachings of which they are most loyal. They are well
known in Cass ccmnty and the circle of their friends is constantly growing as the circle of
their acquaintance widens.
GODFREY H. KNIGHT.
Godfrey H. Knight is one of the extensive land owners of Cass county, his possessions
aggregating fourteen hundred and forty- acres. He was born in Columbia county, Michigan.
August 20, 1839, and the intervening years have marked a life of notable industry, perse-
verance, diligence and business integrity. These qualities have brought him substantial
success, so that he is now classed with the men of aft'luence in his part of the state. He
is of English lineage, his parents being Thomas and Ann (Wass) Knight, both of whom
were natives of England, whence the}- came to the new world about 1829, settling in
Michigan, where they took up their abode upon a farm that continued to be their home
throughout their remaining days. In their family were ten children, six of whom are living.
Godfrey H. Knight spent the period of his minority under the parental roof and after-
ward worked for his father as a farm hand for a year. He had been well trained in tne
methods of tilling the soil and caring for the crops and in the public schools of the neigh-
borhood had acquired his education. In 1863 he left his native state and went to Idaho
looking for gold, spending seven years there. At the end of that time he returned to his
old home in Michigan and in 1870 removed to Niles, that state, where he established a
farm implement business, which he conducted for two years. On selling out he purchased
a farm in Calhoun county, Michigan, where he carried on general agricultural pursuits for a
decade. AL the end of that time he disposed of his farm and removed to Cass county-. North
Dakota, purchasing land on section 23, Bell township. To this he has added from time to
time as his financial resources have increased and favorable opportunity has been presented
and he now owns fourteen hundred and forty acres, being one of the extensive land owners
of the county. His farm is splendidly improved. The raw prairie has been converted into
rich and productive fields which anmially yield golden harvests and his knowledge of con-
ditions of the soil, the needs of various crops and the most scientific methods of farm work
have resulted in making his labors a source of gratifying success. He is engaged in raising
shorthorn cattle and Percheron horses and his live stock interests arc an important feature
of his business.
In 1874 Mr. Knight was married to Miss Lorisa Sutherland, who was born in New
York in 1854, a daughter of Jarvis and Emily (Northriip) Sutherland, who were likewise
natives of the Empire state but removed to Michigan at an early day. Later he took up
his abode in North Dakota and passed away at the home of his son-in-law, Mr. Knight. To
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 65
Mr. and Mrs. Knight has been born a daughter, Emily Ann, the wife of Shepard L. Slieldon,
a resident of Fargo.
Mr. Knight exercises his right of franchise in support of the men and measures of the
republican party, of which he is a stalwart advocate. He has served on the town board of
supervisors for a number of years, yet cannot be said to be a politician in the sense of office
seeking, for he prefers to concentrate his energies upon his business aiTairs rather than fill
public office. Fraternally he is connected with the Masons and has advanced high in
Masonry, being now a noble of the Mystic Shrine. His life exemplifies the beneficent
spirit of the craft which is based upon mutual helpfulness and brotherly kindness and he
is prominent and popular among his associates in the fraternity. In fact he is held in high
esteem wherever known and most of all where he is best known, for his record will bear
close investigation and scrutiny.
LYLE .T. THOMPSON.
Lyle J. Thompson, the present efficient auditor of Ward county and one of the early
residents of Minot, was born at Britt, Iowa, August 25, 18S6, and is a son of J. W. and
Kate (Kimball) Thompson, also natives of Iowa. The father farmed in early manhood but
subsequently removed to Britt, Iowa, where he engaged in the general implement and
hardware business until 1901, when he removed to North Dakota and purchased land nine
and a half miles southwest of Sawyer. He concentrated his energies from that time until
his demise in 1908 on agricultural pursuits and gained a gratifying measure of success in
that connection. He gave his political allegiance to the republican party and while living
in Iowa was nominated for sheriff and defeated by less than fifty votes. His widow is
still living and makes her home in Minot. To them were born five children, three of whom
are living and of whom our subject is the third in order of birth.
Lyle J. Thompson attended the common schools in Britt, Iowa, and high school and a
business college in Minot, thus receiving a thorough practical education. When about
eighteen years of age he entered the office of the superintendent of schools as a stenogra-
pher and remained there for the greater part of a year, after which he became a stenogra-
pher in the office of the board of county commissioners. After filling that position for about
two years he became stenographer and bookkeeper in the Second National Bank, where he
remained for about fifteen months. At the end of that time he accepted the position of
clerk and stenographer in the county auditor's ofiice, in which capacity he served until
1909, when he was ajipointed city auditor. He held that office for four years, making so
excellent a record that at the end of that time he was elected county auditor, in which
capacity he is now serving by reelection. He devotes his entire time to the discharge of his
official duties and to the supervision of his mother's landed interests. His experience as
deputy county auditor and as city auditor made him unusually well qualified for filling the
office of county auditor and he has proved a systematic and capable official.
Mr. Thompson is a stalwart republican and does all in his power to promote the suc-
cess of that party at the polls. He is secretary -treasurer of the Minot Volunteer Fire Com-
pany and is secretary of the Humane Society. Fraternally he is associated with Lodge
No. 1080. B. P. 0. E., at Minot and has many friends both within and without that organi-
zation. He is one of the energetic, efficient and public-spirited young men of !Minot. and
his friends predict for him continued success.
WILLIAM F. ECKES.
William F. Eckes, cashier of the National Bank of Wahpeton. is a native of that city
and has there spent the greater part of his life. He was born on the 7th of Jtine, 1886, a
son of W. F. and Mary K. (Braun) Eckes, natives of Germany and Stearns county. Minne-
sota. They were married in Stearns county but subsequently removed to Wisconsin, where
66 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
they reniaiiied for a short time, after which tliey came to Noitli Dakota, being among the
pioneer settlers of the state. Altliough the father was a poor man when he came to this
state, he gained financial independence and at the time of his death was one of the wealth-
iest men of his county. He engaged in merchandising and also owned a large amount of
valuable farm land and in addition was the proprietor of a mill. His political allegiance
ivas given to the democratic party and he was quite active in public affairs. His religious
faith was that of the Catholic church. He jjassed away in 1890 at the comparatively early
age of forty-two years, as he was born in 1854. His wife survives and makes her home at
Wahpetoii. To them were born four children, three of whom are still living: William F. ;
Alvina, who teaches music in a conservatory at St. I'aul; and Amalia, who is taking voice
culture in Chicago.
William F. Eckes was educated in the St. Francis School at St. Francis, Wisconsin,
and in a business college at Wahpeton. When but seventeen years of age he became book-
keeper of the Merchants State Bank at Breckenridge, where he remained until he accepted a
similar position in the National Bank of Wahpeton. He filled that office until 1913; when
he was made cashier. The bank is capitalized at fifty thousand dollars, has a surplus of ten
thousand dollars and average deposits of three hundred and fifty thousand dollars, which
indicates the place it holds in the confidence of the general public. Mr. Eckes is at once
prudent and aggressive and so directs the policy of the bank as to promote the legitimate
business expansion of the community and at the same time amply safeguard the interests
of the stockholders and depositors.
In 1908 occurred the marriage of Mr. Eckes and iliss Magdaline Pahl, a native of Min-
nesota, by whom he has the following children: Kenneth, Lester, JNIagdaline and Marguerite.
Mr. Eckes is a democrat in politics and has served as a member of the city council and
as school treasurer and city treasurer. His religious faith is that of the Roman Catholic
church and fraternally he is identified with, tlie Catholic Order of Foresters and the Knights
of Columbus. He is a director of the Wahpeton Conservator}' of Music and of the Com-
mercial Club and can always be depended upon to give of his time and energy to the pro-
motion of projects for the comnuinity advancement. Although he is a young man and has
depended solely upon his own rcsoiiicis, he has g;iined a measure of success which many
of his seniors might well envv.
WII.T.l.Ail R. LEMONNIER.
William R. Lemonnier, who is engaged in the real estate and insurance business in
Minot under the name of the Minot Cooperative Realty Company, was born in Carroll
count}', Iowa, August 30, 1875, a son of Millard Fillmore and Anna (Goodaire) Lemonnier,
natives respectively of the state of New York and of England. The father was a cooper by
trade and for a number of years was employed in that capacity in the Standard Oil Works
at Cleveland. Oliio. On removing to Iowa he engaged in farming, which occupation he has
since followed. He is now. however, a resident of southern Minnesota. He has held a
number of school offices but has never sought political office. His wife passed away in
Iowa in 1884, when about thirty years of age.
William R. Lemonnier, who is the elder of a family of two children, attended soliool
in Cleveland, Ohio, for one year but received the rest of his education in Iowa. When
eighteen years of age he engaged in farming in Minnesota and so continued for five years,
after which he became an engineer, following that occupation for eight years. and during
that time holding positions both as a stationary and as a traction engineer. In May, 1900,
he came to North Dakota and took up a claim four miles south of Douglas. In about two
years he received title to his land and then removed to Minot, where he was employed w ith
the Russell Miller Milling Company for one year and with the Minot Milling Company for
four years. At the >ond of that time he entered the real estate and insurance business,
establishing the Minot Cooperative Realty Company, which is now one of the important
concerns in its field in Minot. He devotes his entire time to the business and handles much
WILLIAM R. LEMONNIER
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 69
valuable realty and writes many insurance policies. He owns a number of good residence
properties in the city and is one of its well-to-do citizens.
Mr. Lemonnier was united in marriage on the 30th of December, 1898, to Miss Anna
Green, who was born in Cottonwood county, Minnesota, and is a daughter of John 0. and
Anna (Bjorley) Green, natives respectively of Sweden and Norway. The mother died in
Minnesota in 1901 and subsequently the father came to North Dakota, where he passed
away in 1913, not long after his arrival in this state. He was a public-spirited citizen but
never aspired to office. Mr. and Mrs. Lemonnier have three children: Lind AVilliam, who
was born September 26, 1900; Vera Anna, born September 10, 1904; and John Fillmore,
born September 19, 1909.
Mr. Lemonnier is independent in politics and has never sought office. His fraternal
affiliation is with the Modern Brotherhood of America and he has many friends both within
and without that order. His sound business judgment, combined with his energy, has enabled
him to win a creditable measure of success in his chosen line of business.
GEORGE WAKREN HANNA.
George Warren Hanna, superintendent of schools at Valley City, was born in Jasper
county, Iowa, July 30, 1873, a son of James Steele and Hattie L. (Hunt) Hanna, the for-
mer a native of Ashland, Ohio, and the latter of Boston, Massachusetts. George W. Hanna,
the youngest of a family of five children, attended the public schools and afterward grad-
uated from Highland Park College at Des Moines, Iowa. He then took up the profession
of teaching in that state and afterward spent three years as a teacher in South Dakota
but later returned to Des Moines and became superintendent of the Oak Park school, so
continuing for a year. In August, 1899, he accepted the superintendency of the public
schools of Valley City, North Dakota, and since that time the schools have grown and
developed in every possible way. At the time of his arrival there were but twelve teach-
ers, while today he has thirty-five assistants and all of the school buildings now in exist-
ence have been erected during his regime. At the time he assumed charge he had but one
assistant in the high school, while today there are fourteen teachers in the high school, which
ranks among the best in the northwest, its curriculum embracing forty subjects. Under
the direction of Professor Hanna the work has been carried on most successfully.
On the 20th of July, 1897, Professor Hanna was married to Miss Mabel Way, of Hli-
nois, a daughter of L. A. Wa}'. She was educated in the Woodbine Normal School in west-
ern Iowa and afterward taught in the public schools of Defiance, Iowa. The children of
this marriage are: Warren L., now a student in the University of North Dakota, having
previously graduated from the high school at Valley City and studied in the State Normal
there; and Glenn A., also in school.
Mrs. Hanna shares with her husband in his deep interest in the educational problems
of Valley City and rapid strides have indeed been made since the first school was established
in 1878 in a little log building, for the school buildings here would be a credit to a city of
much large size and the standard of instruction is second to none in the state. They are
also interested in other lines of development and improvement here, their influence being
always on the side of right, truth and advancement.
AV. J. ROBINSON.
W. J. Robinson, who is conducting a lumber and coal yard in Wahpeton and who also
has other business interests, was born in Ontario, Canada, September 5, 1856. His parents,
John and Susanna (Wyley) Robinson, were both born in Ireland, the former in 1823 and
the latter in 1837. The paternal grandfather, .John Robinson, removed to Ontario from
Ireland and lived retired in that province until his demise. The parents of our subject
went to Ontario in their youth and were there married. The father engaged in contracting
70 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
and gained a gratifying measure of success in business. He passed away in Ontario in
1802," but was survived by liis wife until 1910. He was an adherent of the conservative
party in politics and his religious faith was that of the Methodist Episcopal church. To
him "and his wife were born nine children, five of whom are still living: W. J.; Mrs. S. M.
Gowland, of Fargo, this state; Mrs. A. F. Stewart, of Los Angeles; Mrs. F. R. Barnes, of Fargo ;
and George A., who is living retired in Huron, South Dakota.
W. J. Robinson was reared at home and gained his education through attending the
common schools. He subsequently was associated with his father in the contracting business
until 1879, when he removed to Fargo, North Dakota, where he engaged in that line of work
for a year. He then entered the employ of William AVhite, a lumberman, and remained
in that connection for several years, after which he turned his attention to farming in
Lamoure county, North Dakota, where he remained for ten years. He took up land there
and was successful as an agriculturist, but at length again turned his attention to business
pursuits, conducting a lumber yard at Reynolds for three years. He then located in the
town of La Moure, where he managed a lumberyard for three years, after which he became
a member of the company for which he had been working. In 1900 he purchased an interest
in the lumberyard at Wahpeton, where he is still living. The McCulloch-Robinson Lumber
Company was incorporated in 1915 with a capital of fifty thousand dollars and with the fol-
lowing officers: W. J. Robinson, president and treasurer; C. P. Robinson, secretary; John
McCulloch, vice president. They operate a coal business in connection with their lumberyard
at Wahpeton and also own a lumberyard at Colfax, in addition to which they own a hard-
ware store there. All of their business interests are well managed and return thera a good
profit. They have gained an enviable reputation for reasonable prices and fair dealing
and are prominent in the business circles of their community.
In March, 1880, Mr. Robinson was united in marriage to Miss Arabella Robertson, like-
wise a native of Ontario, by whom he has four children: Charles Percy, who is connects
with his father's hardware store at Colfax; Earl W., who graduated from the Annapolis
Naval Academy in 1909 and is serving in the United States navy; Lillian, the wife ol
Ernest Corchran, who is in the general merchandise business at Colfax; and Clarence, who is
attending school.
Mr. Robinson is a republican and has been called to office by his fellow citizens,
having served for five or six years as alderman of Wahpeton and for seven years as county
commissioner, within which time he served on the building committee that erected the
courthouse at a cost of one hundred and forty-five thousand dollars. He is one of the
leaders on the board of commissioners and has been instrumental in securing a number
of improvements in the county. Fraternally he is well known, belonging to the Masonic
blue lodge, in which he served as treasurer for fourteen years, to the Royal Arch
Chapter, the Knights Templar Commandery, the consistory and the Shrine, and being also
identified with Fergus Falls Lodge, No. 109:!, B. P. 0. E., of Fergus Falls, Minnesota, and
with the Independent Order of Odd F'ellows, in which he is past noble grand. His religious
faith is indicated by his membership in the Methodist Episcopal church. When he came to
this state in early manhood his capital consisted of but fifteen dollars, but he was enter-
prising and determined and believed that in this new state he would find opportunities the
utilization of which would enable him to gain success. His hope lias been realized and
he is now one of the substantial men of his communitv.
OLE MALEN.
One of the substantial citizens that Norway has furnished to Cass county is Ole Malen,
who was born in the land of the midnight sun, .January 27, 18GR, his parents being Nela
and Christina Malcn, also natives of that country, where they spent their entire lives and
there rear(^d their family of nine children, ci'.dit of whom are yet living, four iu)W being
residents of the United States.
Ole Malcn was roared and educated in his native land to the age of sixteen years, wlicn
in 1882 he bade adieu to friends and fiimilv and sailed for the new world, niakiu'' liis wa>
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 71
to Ottertail county, Minnesota, where he resided for seven years. He tlien went to George-
town, Minnesota, wliere he was employed as section boss by the Great Northern Railroad
Company for eight years. He had come empty handed to the new world but he carefully
saved his earnings until industry and economy had brought him sufficient capital to enable
him to purchase a farm, at which time he made investment in land near Argusville, North
Dakota. Through the succeeding six years his time and attention were devoted to its develop-
ment and improvement, after which he sold that property and rented a farm in Noble town-
ship, Cass county, upon which he lived for eight years. At the end of that period lie pur-
chased the farm upon which he now resides on section 24, Noble township, comprising one
hundred and thirty-nine acres, lying along the great Red River of the North. He has since
devoted his attention to the cultivation and improvement of this property and his labors
have brought good results.
Mr. Malen has been twice married. He was first married in 1896 to Miss Christina
Ohnstad, who was born in Norway and by her marriage became the mother of five children,
Nora Matilda, Clara Annetta, Gina, Mable, deceased, and Estella. In June, 1906, the wifi'
and mother was called to her final rest, her remains being interred in the Lutheran church
cemetery in Noble township. On the 22d of October, 1907, Mr. Malen was again married,
this union being with Miss Breta Berge, who was likewise a native of Norway but emigrated
to the new world in 1903. Of the second marriage there are also five children, Anna, Oscar,
Harold, Sigurd and Arthur.
Mr. and Mrs. Malen hold membership in the Lutheran church and guide their lives ac-
cording to its teachings. He votes with the republican party but has never sought nor
desired office, preferring to concentrate his energies upon liis business affairs. His life has
been active and well spent and his indefatigable energy and perseverance have been the
foundation upon which he has builded his present success.
ROBERT B. REED.
One of the most important corporations that has contributed to the development and
upbuilding of Cass county and this section of North Dakota is the Amenia & Sharon Land
Company, of which Robert B. Reed is the treasurer. He is an enterprising, forceful and
resourceful business man whose training and experience have qualified him to meet any
emergency, wliile his energy and enterprise lead him to put forth efforts along lines that are
directly resultant and beneficial to the company which he represents and to the district at
large. He is a descendant of one of the old New England families, his birth having occurred
in Ellsworth, Connecticut, July 23, 1874, his parents being John H. and Florence (Chaffee)
Reed, who are mentioned in connection with the sketch of his brother, Walter R. Reed, on
another page of this work. He began his education in the public schools of his native state
and afterward continued his studies in scliools of North Dakota, eventually becoming a pupil
in the State Agricultural College at Fargo, from which he was graduated with the class
of 1895. He has the distinction of having received the first diploma ever issued by that
college.
Following his graduation Mr. Reed became actively identified with the Amenia &
Sliaron Land Company, in which connection he worked his way upward. He was eventually
appointed secretary and still later became secretary and treasurer and at the present time
is filling the responsible position of treasurer of a company which is one of the oldest
established corporations in this part of the state, beginning operations in 1875. since which
time it has contributed much to the settlement, development and progress of North Dakota.
In 1899 Mr. Reed was united in marriage to Miss Edith M. Varnum, of Sykeston,
North Dakota, by whom he has three children, namely: Florence; M., Althea V. and
Clarence R. In his political views Mr. Reed has always been an earnest republican and keeps
well informed on the issues and questions of the day, but does not seek nor desire public
office. He and his wife are members of the Congregational church and guide their lives
according to its teachings. They display many sterling traits of character and to them is
freely accorded the hospitality of the best homes of this section. In liis btisiness career
72 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
Mr. KoccI lias ever readily recognized opportunity, and while lie docs not possess that un-
curbed ambition which often brings about erratic movements in business, lie has never
feared to venture where favoring opportunity has led the way and his diligence and sagacity
have been strong jioints in gaining for him success.
KDCAR AIXEN PRAY, il. D.
Dr. Edgar Allen Pray, phy.sician and surgeon of Valley City, was born in Afton, Washing-
ton county, Minnesota, February 20, 186S, a son of Russell N. and Lydia P. (Van Slyke) Pray,
the former a native of Esse.x and the latter of Herkimer county, New York. The paternal
grandfather, Arba Pray, was also a native of the Empire state and was descended from
English ancestors who came to America in colonial days. In the maternal line the Van
Slykes are of the original Dutch stock that settled in Herkimer county, New York. Rus-
sell N. Pray removed westward to Minnesota in 1855 and there followed the trade of car-
penter and builder. He offered his services to the government at the time of the Civil
war, but his health was such that he was rejected. After some years' residence in Minne-
sota ho removed to Fargo, North Dakota, in 1877 and there remained until 1883, when he
became a resident of Barnes county, settling on a farm in the outskirts of Valley City, where
he remained until his death, which occurred in 1904, when he was seventy-two years of age.
His widow is still a resident of Valley City.
Dr. Pray was the eldest of their four children and his public school training was sup-
plemented by a course in Carleton College at Northfield, Minnesota, after which he matricu-
lated in the University of Pennsylvania and was graduated on the completion of the medical
course with the class of 1894, winning his professional degree. After a year spent in St.
Luke's Hospital at Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, during which he gained the benefit of that
broad and diversified practice which hospital experience brings he returned to North Dakota
and has since been engaged in active and successful practice in Valley City. He has taken
the degrees of Scottish Rite masonry, is a member of the Mystic Shrine and is also identified
with the Knights of Pythias.
In June, 1895, Dr. Pray was married to j\Iiss Frances A. Peake, of Faribault, Minnesota,
a daughter of the Rev. E. S. Peake, a pioneer missionary of the Episcopal church in the
northwest, and a sister of General A. P. Peake. The children of this marriage are: Ralph
E., a graduate of the Shattuck Military Academy; Russell H.; Fiances E.; Lawrence G.;
Margaret; and Dorothy E.
AVILLIAM IWEN.
William Iwen, an agriculturist residing on section C, Puish River township, Cass county
is the owner of a valuable farm of three hundred and twenty acres, which he has operated
continuously and successfully for the past twonty-four years. His birth occurred in Ger-
many, on the 15th of December, 18C3, his jiarents being Fred and Caroline Iwen, who emi-
grated to the l?nitcd States in 18G4 and located in Winona county, Minnesota. There the
father passed away in 1873 and the mother afterward married .John Schlaet, a sketch of
whom appears on another page of this work.
In 1880, when in his seventeenth year, William Iwen came to North Dakota with his
mother and stepfather and ten years later began farming on his own account as a renter.
In 1892 he purchased three hundred and twenty acres of land on section 6, Rush River
township, which he has cultivated continuously to the present time, the well tilled fields
annually yielding golden harvests as a reward for the care and labor which he bestows
upon them. He is a member of the board of directors and one of the stockholders of the
Farmers Elevator Company at Arthur.
In 1890 Mr. Iwen was united in marriage to Miss Martha Sommcrfeld, who is a sister
of Julius E. Sommcrfeld, a prosperous agriculturist of Arthur township, Cass county, whose
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 73
record is given on another page of this vohime. To our subject and his wife have been
born five diildren. three of whom survive, namely: Edwin, William, Jr., and Elizabeth.
All are still at home.
Politically Mr. Iwen is a stanch republican and he is now ably serving in the capacity
of school treasurer, while for about ten j'cars he was a member of the board of township
trustees. His religious faith is indicated by his membersliip in the German Lutheran church,
to which his wife and diildren also belong. He has always shown great interest in all that
pertains to the general welfare and has been known as a public-spirited man who lias ever
found time and inclination to cooperate in the movements for the public good. In all the
relations of life he has been hon^yrable and straightforward, and his example is well worthy
of emulation.
PETER O. INGEBRIKTSON.
The agricultural interests of Cass county tind a worth}' representative in Peter 0.
Ingebriktson, who resides on section 5, Reed township. Moreover, he deserves prominent
mention as one of the earliest pioneers of Xorth Dakota, settling in the territory when the
work of progress and development seemed scarcely begun. He was born in Xorway on the
12th of February, 1847, his parents being Ingebrikt and Carrie (Johnson) Lowek, both of
whom died in Norway.
Tlieir son Peter had spent his youthful days under the parental roof and had acquired
a public school education in his native country. Favorable reports reached him concern-
ing the opportunities of the new world and at length he decided to try his fortune on this
side of the Atlantic. Accordingly in 1869 he bade adieu to friends and native country and
sailed for Quebec, whence he made his way to Detroit in a box car. He proceeded from
that city to Chicago and three weeks later went to Albert Lea. Minnesota, where he secured
a position as clerk in a drug store. There he worked for about a year and in 1870 he ob-
tained employment on the construction of the Northern Pacific Railway, the laborers being
largely Norwegians. Mr. Ingebriktson, who had secured a fair education, was made fore-
man of a crew and continued work in connection with the construction of the road into
Moorhead, where he arrived on the 11th day of November, 1871. After the completion of the
line to that point he obtained a position as clerk with the firm of Hubbard, Raymond &
Allen, general merchants of Moorhead, Avith whom he continued as a trusted employe for
four years or more. In 1878 he preempted one hundred and sixty acres on section 6, Reed
township, on which he built a small franu' house and there began farming. After two
years he bought sixty-eight acres lying between his place and the river and afterward added
forty acres more, making his present farm one of two lumdrcd and sixty-eight acres. This
tract he has converted into well tilled fields and his energy and industry have been rewarded
with substantial crops which bring to him a gratifying annual income. In addition to
his farming interests Mr. Ingebriktson lias been prominent and active along other lines.
He was one of seven men who organized the Farmers Elevator at Harwood and for several
years was a member of its board of directors. He is also a stockholder in the Fargo Ice
Cream Company.
Mr. Ingebriktson has been married twice. In 1874 lie wedded Miss Anna Hanson, of
Calmar, Iowa, by whom he had two children, namely: Emil, who is emploj'ed as clerk in a
general store at Prosper, North Dakota : and Carl, who is engaged in farming in Reed
township. The wife and mother passed away in 1890 and two years later Mr. Ingebriktson
was again married, his second union being with Mrs. Mary Christensen, of Fargo, North
Dakota. Her father, Hand Palmer, emigrated to the United States in 1872 and located in
Clay county, Minnesota, five miles from Moorhead. Mrs. Ingebriktson has one daughter
by her former marriage, Ida, who is the wife of John Storley, of Reed township, Cass
county. North Dakota.
Politically a republican, Mr. Ingebriktson was the first county treasurer of Traill
county but has declined other public offices, preferring to concentrate his energies upon his
business affairs, which have brought him substantial return. However, he has not been
74 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
iiniiiiiulful of tlie duties of citizeiisliip and lias cooperated in many iilaiis and movements
for tlic general good. He is also a stockholder in St. Luke's Hospital of Fargo. He has
manifested in his career nianj' sterling traits and is accounted a progressive and public-
spirited citizen, well informed and one vhose life record is an indication of the fact that
success may be won when there is a will to dare and to do.
ROBERT E. HUELY.
Uobcit K. Iluily, proprietor of a general store at Forman and also interested in tlie
grain trade, in banking and in farming, was born at Benton Harbor, Michigan, July 14,
]880. a son of William and Ella B. (Brown) Hurly, both of whom were early residents of
Michigan. The father was editor of a newspaper throughout practically his entire life and
in 1888 he established the Forman Independent, which he published for a long period. He
passed away in March, 1913, and is still survived by his widow, who yet lives in Forman.
In their family were nine children.
Robert E. Hurly, the second in order of birth, was but a child when his parents re-
moved to Forman, .'^o that his education was acquired in its public schools. He -worked in
his father's printing office for five years and when twenty-one years of age he bought out
the stock of S. F. Mullin, a grocer of Forman, and to that line he added a stock of general
iiicicliandise and has since carried on the business with growing success. He now has a
well appointed store, successfully managed and attractively arranged. His prosperity is
attributable entirely to his determination, his enterprise and his reliable methods. He
employs two clerks in his store and his trade is gratifying. He is also interested in farm
lands, owning acreage property on section 31. Dunbar township, and on section 2S, AVilley
townsliip. in Sargent eoiinty. He is likewise a stocklioldcr in tlie National Bank of Forman
and in tlie Farmers Elevator of Forman.
In 1907 Mr. Hurly was married to Jliss Bertha M. Dysto, a daughter of M. H. and
Hannah Dysto, her father a Forman merdiaiit. In their family were nine children, of
whom Mrs. Hurly is the eldest.
In his political views Mr. Hurly is a republican and has served on both the town board
and the school board. He belongs to the Knights of Pythias, tlie Modern Woodmen, the
Yeomen and the Ancient Order of United Workmen, all of Forman. Whatever he under-
takes he carries forward to successful completion and he is never afraid to venture where
favoring opportunity points out the way. His ambition and energy have carried him into
important business relations.
T. F. CLAPP.
T. F. Clap'p is one of the iiitc ipri.'^ing merchants of Grandin. concentrating his efforts
upon the development of his business which has now reached substantial jiroportions. He was
born in Ohio, on the 14th day of March, IS;", and is a son of Maurice and Laura (Greeley)
aapp, the latter a niece of Horace Greeley. Botli the father and mother were natives of Oliio
and there continued their residence throughout their entire lives. They had a family of three
children, one of whom has now passed awav.
T. F. Clapp was reared and ediicated in Ohio, sjjending his youthful days in the home
of his parents, and after attaining his majority started out in life on his own account. He
spent three years as a farmer in his native state, after which he sought the opportunities
of the rapidly growing and developing northwest, coming to North Dakota in I8,S3. He took
up hi.s abode in Cass county, locating on ii farm on section 30, Kenyon township, which lie
purchased. He then bent every energy to the further development and improvement of the
property and there lived for twenty-one years, his labors producing excellent results, as is
seen in the highly cultivated fields and the substantial buildings which he added to his place.
He still owns that farm and from it derives a gratifying annual income, although at the
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 75
present time be makes his home in Grandin, where he is engaged in merchandising. On his
removal to the town he opened a confectionery store, whicli he conducted for two years and
at the end of that period he turned liis attention to the hardware trade. Still later he ex-
tended the scope of his activities by adding a line of groceries and has been in this business
continually ever since, dealing in both liardware and groceries. His store contains a good
line of both hardware and groceries and his honorable business methods and earnest desire
to please commend him to the confidence and support of the public.
On the 18th of September, 1878, Mr. Clapp was married to Miss Cora A. Payne, who was
born in Ohio, and is a daughter of Charles and Angeline (Strong) Payne, both of whom were
natives of the Buckeye state and tliere both passed away. Mrs. Clapp is one of a family ol
tliree children, all of whom survive.
In his political opinions Mr. Clapp is an earnest republican, believing firmly in the prin-
ciples of the party, although he is not active as an office seeker. He has served, however,
as town supervisor and has been a member of the school board. He belongs to Yeoman
Lodge, No. 290, in which he has filled some of the chairs. He does all in his power to further
the moral progress and development of the community in w'hich he makes his home and has
guided his life according to high ethical standards. His career is characterized by integrity
and honor, winning for him the liigh remird of his fellowmen.
HENRY BEAL.
Henry Beal, living retired at Valley City, was born in Guilford, Maine, September 14,
1843, the youngest in a family of eight children whose parents were Samuel and Esther
(Herring) Beal, who were also natives of the Pine Tree state. Following their marriage they
settled in Piscataquis county, being among its first settlers, and there the father cleared a
farm and also followed fishing and other seafaring interests. He died at an early age and
his widow continued on the farm, afterward becoming the wife of Hiram Stacey, who lived
in the village of Foxcroft in the same county. She i cached the advanced age of eighty-
two years.
At the time of his father's death Henry Beal, owing to the burden that devolved upon
his mother to support her family of small children, went to live with his aunt, Mrs. Lydia
Peters, his mother's sister, at Pelhani. New Hampshire, there remaining to the age of eleven
years, when he went to Lawrence. Massachusetts, and learned the painter's trade, which he
followed until the outbreak of the war. When in answer to President Lincoln's first call for
troops he enlisted on the 15th of April, 1S61, he had already had military training, having
been a member of the militia. He was mustered in at Boston and with his command pro-
ceeded to Washington, where the troops Avere sworn in for three months' service, Mr. Beal
being a member of Company F, Sixth Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, under Colonel Edwin
P. Jones. They were quartered in the senate chambers in Washington until the arrival of
other troops. This was the first regiment to reach the capital and at Baltimore they were
mobbed on the 19th of April, 1861, four of the men being killed. For two weeks they re-
mained in Washington and were then sent to the relay house to guard the junction of the
Baltimore & Ohio Railroad where it branches off to go to Harpers Ferry. Later they were
sent to Baltimore to take charge of the arsenal located there and a few days later after
obtaining possession at that point, they were again sent to the relay house and shortly
afterward were returned to Washington to do guard duty. On the 22d of July, 1861, the
United States congress passed a vote of thanks to the regiment for the alacrity with which
the men had responded and the patriotism and bravery which they had displaj'ed. They were
returned to Boston on the expiration of their three months' term and honorably discharged
August 2, 1861. Mr. Beal then went back to Maine and attended school during the winter,
but still the war continued, and on the 1.3th of January, 1862, he reenlistcd, becoming a
member of Company G. Second Regiment of Infantry, of the District of Columbia. He was
sent on to Washington, where the regiment was held as a patrol guard, and there he served
until honorably discharged owing to injuries which he had received in the performance of
duty in the capital on the 10th of May, 1862. He then went down with the Sixth Maine
76 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
Iiifantiy in the employ of a sutler, and so continued until July, 1802, when he bccamo ill
with malarial fever and was sent north. After six weeks spent in a hospital at I'liiladeliiliia
he returned to Haine, where he recuperated. His brother, Melvin Beal, was a second lieutenant
of Company F, Sixth Massachusetts Infantry, following his enlistment in response to tht
first call for troops. Reenlisting, he bccamo a lieutenant colonel and afterward a colonel, and
when the w'ar ended he returned to Lawrence, :Massachusctts. where he lived for sixty years.
Ill the winter of 3 802-3 Henry Beal removed to Wisconsin, becoming a pioneer of New Rich-
mond, 8t. Croix county, where he engaged in clerking.
In September, 1863, Mr. Beal was married to Miss Emily Payne, the daughter of liis em-
|)loyer, and to them were born three children: Angle A., now Mrs. \V. S. Emory, of Barnes
in 1901 and on the 15th of August, 1908. Mr. Beal wedded Jliss Hattie Young, of Budds
Lake, New Jersey.
After his first marriage Mr. Beal continued in Wisconsin for two years and then returned
count}-. North Dakota; Martha B.; and Esther, deceased. The wife and mother passed away
to Lawrence, Massachusetts, where ho and his brother. Colonel Beal. formed a partnership and
engaged in the painting business lor four years. At the end of that time he went to Maiiu'.
where he embarked in the lumber business in partnership with his brother, remaining at that
point for two years or more. He lu'xt establislied liis home at East Golden, Micliigan, where
he once more conducted a lumber business and also spent some time as foreman of a large
mill. Later he was in Wisconsin, where he engaged in lumbering, and in September, 1879,
he arrived in Valley City, North Dakota, after which he homesteaded and engaged in farming
for a few years. He then returned to Wisconsin, where lie took up mill work once more,
but sufl'erod very heavy losses from a cyclone. Going again to Valley City, he has since
made his home there and is now living retired.
While in Wisconsin Mr. Beal was aiijioinled ])ostmaster of Haywood by President Harri-
son and served for four years and was also city auditor in \'alley City for two years. He
lias always given loyal support to the republican party and he stands for clean politics and
good government. Kraternally he is connected with several organizations and is now com-
mander of the Graiul Army of the Republic for the Department of North Dakota with the
rank of general, an honor which he greatly appreciates, coming to him from his old comrade
who were the "boys in blue" of ISCl to 180."). He has in his possession the Massachusetts
modal which was given to each of the original ninety day men who enlisted from that state.
In Masonic circles he has taken tlie degrees of the lodge, chapter and commanilerv and he
belongs also to the Independent Order of Odd Follows and the Kniglits of Pythias. His fellow
townsmen instinctively respect and honor him because of his upright life, his high ideals and
his sterling worth, manifest in every relation.
B. G. TKNNESOX.
B. G. Tenneson, of Pierce, Tenneson & Cupli'r, the leading firm of attorcnys of Fargo,
posaesBes in strong measure the analytical mind and keen disccrnnunt of the able lawyer and
his progress at the bar has been contijiuous since he made his initial step in the profession.
He has been connected with the practice of law in Fargo since 1896, the year following the
completion of his university course. He was then a young man of thirty years, his birth
having occurred on the 15th of February, 1865, in Trempelea\i county, Wisconsin. His
parents, Peder an<l Dorothea (Gulbrandson) Tenneson, were natives of Norway, but were
married in the United States. Emigrating to the new world, the father became a AVisconsin
farmer and continued to reside in that state until liis death in 1884. He was married twice,
Mrs. Dorotliea Tenneson being his second wife. She survives him at the advanced age of
eighty-nine years and makes her home with her son in Fargo.
Spending his youthful days in the home of his parents, B. G. Tenneson supplemented
a common school education by study in the Curtiss Business College and in the Minneapolis
Academy, where he completed a course in 1888. He afterward entered upon the study of
law in the University of Minnesota at Jlinneapolis, completing his course with the graduat-
ing class of 1895. The same year he was admitted to the Minnesota state bar and the
B. G. TENNESON
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 79
following year passed the required state board examination of North Dakota and was
admitted to practice in this state. He remained for a year in Minneapolis and in 1896 came
to Fargo, where he entered the law ofBce of Newman, Spalding & Phelps, with whom he was
associated for two years. Leaving their employ, he next became associated with Edmund
Pierce, of Sheldon, North Dakota, with whom he remained for five years, at the end of
which time, or in 1903, the firm of Pierce & Tenneson was formed. They removed their
headquarters to Fargo and on the 1st of January, 1908, they were joined by a third partner,
A. W. Cupler, under the present firm style of Pierce, Tenneson & Cupler. They rank among
the foremost attorneys in corporation law not only in the city but in the state and represent
about twelve, of the leading corporations of Fargo. They also make a specialty of examining
and perfecting titles and at the same time continue in the general practice of law.
Mr. Tenneson and his partners are well versed in all branches of practice and they have won
many notable cases. Mr. Tenneson enjoys well merited distinction as an able lawyer and
at the same time he is a prominent figure, in financial circles as the vice president of the
Northern Trust Company of Fargo and a director of the Scandinavian-American Bank. He
is also a heavy investor in Cass county farm lands and holds valuable property interests.
On the 1st of August, 1893, Mr. Tenneson was married to Miss Hilda Keeland, a
native of Norway, and to them have been born three children, Clarence P., Norman G. and
Agnes L. The parents are members of the Scandinavian Lutheran church and Mr. Tenneson
is also a member of the Norse Society of Fargo and of the Sons of Norway. Fraternally he
is identified with Mizpah Lodge, No. 39, F. & A. M., of Sheldon; Dakota Consistory, No. 1,
A. & A. S: K; and El Zagal Temple, A. A. 0. N. M. S., of Fargo He is likewise a member
of the Knights of Pythias lodge of Fargo, while his political allegiance is given to the
republican party He belongs to the Fargo Commercial Club and is interested in all of its
plans and projects for the development and upbuilding of the city, giving hearty cooperation
wherever aid is needed for the furtherance of the welfare of city or state. He is ever
to be found where intelligent men are met in the discussion of vital problems and he is justly
regarded as one of the foremost representatives of the legal profession in Fargo.
GLUF KYIXO.
Oluf Kyllo, who follows farming on section 31, Eeed township, Cass county, is of Nor-
wegian birth but from the age of two years has made his home in the new world and from
early boj'hood has been actively identified with agricultural interests, being now the owner
of an excellent -farm property equipped with all of the conveniences and accessories of a
model farm of the twentieth century. His birth occurred in Norway on the 13th of June,
1864, his parents being Mr. and Mrs. Peter Kyllo, mentioned elsewhere in this work in con-
nection with the sketch of Theodore Kyllo. They came to the United States when their son
Oluf was but two years of age, so that his education was acquired in the district schools of
this land, but his opportunities for educational training were limited, as his services were
early required upon the home farm. When a youth of but fourteen years he made a hanc^
in the harvest field at a time when grain was bound by the workmen, as invention had not
yet brought forth the machine to do this task. The haluts of industry which he formed in
the early days have remained with him throughout the intervening years. He worked upon
the old homestead until he could purchase a farm of his own, buying his first land in 1895,
at which time he became owner of a tract of two hundred and eighty acres situated on sec-
tion 31, Keed township, Cass county. He then bent his energies to the development of thi
property and today has one of the best improved farms of the county. The place is well
fenced and divided into fields of convenient size which return a gratifying annual income. He
has erected good buildings and the latest improved farm machinery is used to facilitate the
cultivation and care of the crops.
In 1897 Mr. Kyllo was xmited in marriage to Miss Oleana Knudson, hy whom he had
six children, five of whom .still survive, namely: Gorda S., Clara G., Helen A., Olga 0. and
H. Lillian. Mr. Kyllo votes with the republican party and is now serving on the board of
township trustees. He is much interested in the cause of education and is acting as a mem-
Vol. II— 5
50 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
the Minot Flout- ilill Company, rncorpoiated, of which he is the vice president and general
manager. In the summer of 1915 he organized tlie Western Elevator Company, Incorporated,
of which he is also the vice president and general manager. He is likewise a landowner,
having a farm three miles south of Minot, but he devotes tlie greater part of his attention
to the milling and grain business. The Western Elevator Company operates a line of ele-
vators in North Dakota and the Minot Milling Company makes shipments to all the larger
markets throughout the United States. This company manufactures flour of superior excel-
lence, known as the Snow White, and the mill is completely equipped witli the most modern
machinery and employs the latest processes. Steadily the trade has grown until it has now
assumed extensive proportions and the success of the two undertakings is attributable in
no small measure to the efforts and business ability of Mr. Bunnell.
In June 1S93, Mr. Bunnell was united in marriage to Miss Rosenna Vice, a native of
Ontario, Canada, and a daughter of George and Emily (Goulden) Vice, both of whom were
born in England. The father, a foundryman and merchant, is still actively engaged in
business in Ontario, but the mother passed away in the year 1890. To Mr. and Mrs. Bun-
nell have been born eight children, as follows: Florence J., who is supervisor of music in
the Bchoola of Portal, North Bakota; Edith Grace, a student in the State Normal School
at Minot: William Harold, a sophomore in tlic Minot high scliool; Myron Goulden, a sixth
grade public school student; Irwin Robinson, a fiftli grade pupil; and Howard, Wilbur and
Claire, all at home.
Mr. Bunnell is prominently known in fraternal circles, holding membership with the
Masonic lodge, the Knights of Pythias, the Foresters and the United Commercial Travelers.
His political allegiance is given to the republican party and he has served on the board of
aldermen of Minot. He belongs to the Methodist Episcopal church and in its teachings
is found the guiding spirit of his life, which conforms thereto in all of its relations. He is
found thoroughly reliable as well as enterprising in business and progressive and trustworthy
in citizenship, while the qualities lie displays in private life have won him warm and endur-
ing friendships.
JOHN BARRETT FOLSOJl.
Wlien Fargo was entering upon an era of rapid development and progress John Barrett
Folsom became identified with that section of the state and remained to tlie time of his
death a prominent figure in the business and social life of his community. If the historian
were, without preliminary effort, to set forth his achievements in a single sentence it would
perhaps best be done in the words, the splendid success of an honest man in whose life
business ability and humanitarianism were well balanced forces.
Mr. Folsom was born in Ohio in 1837 and spent his boyhood in the southern part of
that state. He attended the public school of Ironton until his thirteentli year and was said
to be the brightest boy that ever attended tliat school, but on entering'his teens he was
forced to put aside his textbooks in order to provide for his own support and began earning
his living as a clerk in a country store. From that time until his death on the 6tli of
August, 1912, he scarcely passed an idle day. In 1863 he accepted a position at an iron
furnace and was connected with the iron industiy at different periods in Ohio, Kentucky,
Tennessee, Missouri and Michigan, thoroughly acquainting himself with every detail of the
business and continuing his activity along that line until he yielded to the lure of Bakota.
In 1882 Mr. Folsom sold his interests in iron furnaces and came to Fargo, which was
then in the midst of a boom. He there purchased property and immediately opened a real
estate and loan office, meeting witli success in the business from the beginning. He soon
mastered all of the details of real estate transactions and activity as thoroughly as he
had the details of the iron business. Jlr. Folsom had the same kind of a mental picture of
a quarter section of land in the region within one hundred or more miles of Fargo that a
wideawake, enterprising real estate broker in the city has of its blocks and streets. He
did not have to refer to maps or notes when a farm or an undeveloped piece of land was
mentioned; the legal description of it immediately suggested a mental picture to tiim. If
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 51
it were inipioveJ property he knew precisely how many buildings there were and what
kind of a well there was on it, also the character and quality of the soil. To the day of his
death he was a man of extraordinary mental and physical activity but as simple, as gentle
and as kindly in his nature as a girl. Mr. Folc-om had no enemies; there was nothing in his
nature or his actions to inspire enmity. By hi honesty, his kindliness, his helpfulness and
unselfish attention to their interests he endeared himself to all of his business clients and
associates and there is no man in all of the young state of North Dakota who has helped
more worthy homesteaders to overcome hardships and difliculties occasioned by bad crops
and keep possession of their farms than did Mr. Folsoni.
In 1863 occurred the marriage of Mr. Folsom and iliss Lavisa C. Forsythe, of southern
Oliio, and when death called him he was survived by his widow and a daughter, the latter
being the wife of Major Matthew F. Steele, of the United States Army, who after serving for
thirty years as a cavalry officer retired from active military duty in order to take charge
of Mr. Folsom's business and estate.
Mr. Folsom was one of Fargo's most public-spirited men and was always ready to
give personal and financial aid to whatever was done for the betterment of business or
social conditions of the town. He stood at all times for advancement and improvement
and heartilv cooperated in those measures which were a matter of civic virtue and civic
pride. Of his many good qualities not the least was his capacity for strong friendships.
The simplicity and beauty of his daily life as seen in his home and family relations consti-
tuted an even balance to his splendid business ability. The high ideals which he cherished
found embodiment in practical effort for their adoption and because of the innate refine-
ment of his nature he rejected everything opposed to good taste.
HON. FRANK P. ALLEN.
Hon. Frank P. Allen, judge of the fomth district court of North Dakota and a resident
of Lisbon, was born in New York city on the 19th of December, 1859, his parents being
Frank S. and Hannah E. (Benedict) Allen, both of whom were natives of New York city
and descended from old colonial families connected with Revolutionary war history, so that
Judge Allen is eligible to membership through both the paternal and maternal lines with
the Sons of the American Revolution. In early life his father became a New York banker
but for several years has lived retired and he and his wife, at the ages of eighty-five and
eighty- four years respectively, are now residents of New York <;ity.
•Tudge Allen was educated in the schools of his native city, of Connecticut and of New
Jersey and afterward went with his parents to Germany, where he studied for three years.
Later he continued his studies in Paris until the outbreak of the Franco-Prussian war,
when he returned to this country. He subsequently entered Princeton Universit}- and was
graduated with the class of 1881. winning the civil engineer's degree.
It was in the summer of 1882 that Judge Allen first visited Dakota. After reaching the
territory he readily recognized the advantages which the new country offered to a young
man and which made strong appeal to hira. He determined to remain and after traveling
over the state in search of a favorable location settled at Lisbon, where he has since made
his home. Subsequently he took up the study of law and was admitted to practice in 1886.
For some years he practiced independently and then entered into partnership with Hon. P. H.
Rourke. with whom he was associated for some time. In 1886 he was elected probate judge
and served for two or three terms and at a later date he became county judge with increased
jurisdiction, remaining upon the bench of that court for a number of terms. He has filled
various minor offices but his activities have usually been put forth along the line of his pro-
fession and in 1904 he was elected judge of the fourth district court and through the inter-
vening period of twelve years has remained upon the bench, widely recognized as one of
the most capable and distinguished district judges of the state. Devotedly attached to his
profession, systematic and methodical in habit, sober and discreet in judgment, calm in
temper, diligent in research, conscientious in the discharge of every duty, courteous and
kind in demeanor and inflexibly just on all occasions, these qualities have enabled him to
82 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
ford as vice president and Mrs. Granger as secretary and treasurer, while all his sons arp
members of the company. He first came to Valley City through the recommendation of
"Uncle John" Russell, whose two sisters were aunts of Mr. Granger. His first year vra>
spent in the employ of Dr. S. B. Coe, at that time proprietor and publisher of the Northern
Pacific Times. In the years which have since elapsed sound judgment has characterized his
business dealings, his enterprise has been guided by a progressive spirit and in all that he
has undertaken he has won success.
In August, 1891, Ml-. Granger was united in marriage to Miss Ella M. Gibson, of Che-
nango county. New York, a daughter of Jacob Gibson, and their children are: Cliliord,
who is a graduate of the Valley City State Normal and is now at home; Glenn, who is also
a graduate of the Normal and is now in the real estate business with his father; Allan, who
is being similarly educated and who has developed considerable talent as a musical com-
poser, giving great promise along that line; Irwin, a student in the State Normal; and
Florence and Leslie, also in school.
The parents are members of the Methodist chui-ch and Jlr. Granger has served on the
school board but has never had desire for public office. He is notwithstanding a good citizen,
loyal to every public interest that promises for the welfare and upbuilding of the community.
He manifests the same progressive spirit in relation to the general good that he does in his
private business aflairs.
FRED L. WICKS, PH. G., M. D.
Dr. Fred L. Wicks, a most progressive physician specializing in his practice in the
treatment of diseases of the eye, ear, nose and throat, has been located in Valley City
since 1909 and has an office splendidly equipped for the conduct of the most delicate work
connected with his specialty. He was born in Albert Lea, Minnesota, March 2, 1885, a son
of Edwin and Ida May (Harrison) Wicks, the former a native of La Salle county, Illinois,
and the latter of Cincinnati, Ohio. The great-grandfather in the Wicks line was of Nor-
wegian stock, while the Harrisons are an old colonial family, coming from the same
ancestry as the Harrison branch which has furnished two presidents to the United States.
Through the Doctor's aunt the family became connected with the Grant family of which
U. S. Grant was a representative.
Edwin Wicks was reared in Freeborn county, Minnesota, to which locality the family
removed from Illinois. When a young man he went to Alberta Lea, Mirthesota, and there
learned the general merchandise business. Later he turned his attention to the lumber
trade in Dakota and is still in active business at Canton, South Dakota, being now sixty-
two years of age. He has never been remiss in duties of citizenship but has borne his
share in promoting interests of public moment and at the same time he has been a helpful
member and generous supporter of the church. To him and his wife were born a daxightcr
who died in infancy and two sons, the elder being Jesse Harrison Wicks, a pharmacist
who conducts a drug store at Denton, Montana.
The younger brother. Dr. Wicks, of Valley City, acquired his elementary education in
the public schools of Salem, South Dakota, and afterward attended the high school at
Windom. He next entered Redfield College at Redfield, South Dakota, and afterward
became a student in the department of pharmacy of Highland Park College at Des Jloines,
Iowa, where he won his Ph. G. degree in 1903. He regarded this merely as an initial step
to other professional activity, for he then entered the College of Physicians and Surgeons
of Keokuk, Iowa, and was graduated with the M. D. degree in 1906. Going to Chicago, be
took post graduate Avork in the Chicago Eye, Ear, Nose and Throat College, after which
he came to North Dakota and for three years was engaged in general practice in the
northern part of the state, but in 1909 opened an office in Valley City, where he has since
concentrated his energies upon the treatment of the eye, ear, nose and throat and along
his special field has built up an extensive practice. He has a fine modern office thoroughly
equipped for his work and he is in close touch with all the latest scientific researches and
discovcriee.
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 83
On the 30tli of August, 1913, occurred the marriage of Dr. Wicks and Miss Maud Yost,
ji Somerset, Ohio, a daughter of Owen Yost, an attorney of that place. They have one son,
Edwin Owen. Mrs. Wiclis is a member of the Congregational church and he is identified
with the Brotherhood of that organization. He takes a special interest in athletics for the
young members. He has always been much interested in athletics, playing on the base
ball and football teams when in college and still keeping up his interest, so that he is well
qualified to advise and assist the younger element in their games. He knows that it is
just as important to play well as to work well and that the balanced character is that in
which recreation and work are given a due proportion of interest. Along the line of his
profession his membership extends to the Shej-enne Valley Medical Association, the North
Dakota State Medical Association and the American Medical Association. His own life
constitutes an example and makes an appeal for strong, clean, honorable, energetic manhood
and proves what can be accomplished when there is no waste of time or opportunity.
JOHN J. COYLE.
Among the successful attorneys of Minot is John J. Coyle, who was born in Forreston,
Illinois, August 17, 1877, the youngest of a family of seven children born to the union of
Bernard and Ellen (Mathews) Coyle. The father is a native of County Cavan and the mother
was born in County Limerick, Ireland, but they were married in America, the father having
emigrated here in 1851 and the mother in the following year. Mr. Coyle was engaged in
railroad contract work in Freeport, Illinois, for a considerable period and also followed agri-
cultural pursuits for some time. He has now reached the venerable age of ninety-four and
is living in Freeport. In his early manhood he held a number of local offices and proved
conscientious and capable in the discharge of his duties. He has at all times conformed his
life to the highest standards of morality and has never smoked nor chewed nor used intoxi-
cating liquors. He is a devout member of the Roman Catholic church and for fifty years
has taken the collection every Sunday. His wife passed away in 1905.
John J. Coyle attended the countrj' schools and the Freeport high school and then, at
the age of eighteen years, became stenographer for the station agent at Freeport, holding
that position for about two years. During that time he carefully saved his money, as he
had determined to prepare for the practice of law, and when he felt that he was in a financial
position to carry out his plans he entered the law department of the University of Wisconsin.
While a student there he served as secretary to the dean of the law school and thus helped
pay his expenses. He was graduated in 1900 and not long afterward became connected
with the legal department of the Deering Harvester Company at Chicago, Illinois. After a
year, however, he removed to Minot and entered upon the independent practice of his pro-
fession, forming a partnership with George A. McGee under the firm name of McGee & Coyle
on the 1st of November, 1901. After about three years this partnership was dissolved and
Mr. Coyle was then alone in practice until 1912, when he took in 0. B. Herigstad as a partner.
This connection was maintained until the 1st of March, 1915, when Mr. Herigstad was
appointed assistant states attorney, and since that time Mr. Coyle has practiced alone. He
has gained a large and representative clientage and is recognized as an able attorney. He
adds to a comprehensive knowledge of the law a keen insight into human natirre, a logical
mind and the power of convincing argument. He owns stock in a number of business enter-
prises in Minot and holds title to two thousand acres of good farm land which he rents and
from which he derives a substantial addition to his income.
Mr. Coyle was married on the 29th of July, 1903, to Miss Gertrude M. Loos, a native
of Freeport, Illinois, and a daughter of N. B. and Katherine (Ryan) Loos, who were born
respectively in Germany and in New York. The father engaged in the manufacture of
saddles in his early manhood but is now deceased. He served as alderman and as city
treasurer and also held other offices and was highly esteemed in his community. His wife
survives. Mr. and Mrs. Coyle are the parents of a son and daughter: Helen Lois, who was
born on the 12th day of July, 1908; and Bernard John, whose birth occurred on the 9th of
August, 1913.
84 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
Mr. Coyle is a republican and has held the oiEce of public administrator and of states
attorney of Ward county. He is now serving as a member of the insanity commission of
Ward county and in all his official capacities he has given the same care and thought to the
discharge of his duties as he gives to the conduct of his cases in his private practice. His
military record covers service as a member of Governor Sarles' staff with the rank of colonel.
The principles which govern his conduct arc indicated by his membership in the Koman Cath-
olic church. He is a charter member of Minot Lodge, No. 10S9, B. P. 0. E., and is an olTiccr
in the Grand Lodge of Xorth Dakota of the Ancient Order of United Workmen. He is an
advocate of Minot Council, No. 1150, K. C, in which he has taken the fourth degree. He is
recognized not only as an able attorney but also as a public-spirited citizen and a man of
sterling worth, and his personal friends are many.
MAKTIN J. ENGESETH.
Martin J. Engeseth, the popular and capable register of deeds of Ward county, is one
of the valued citizens of Minot. A native of Wisconsin, his birth occurred in De Forest, Dane
county, on the 37th of January, 1875. He is a son of John and Betsy (Grinde) Engeseth.
both of whom were born in Norway. They came to the United States in their youth and were
married here. The father continued to farm in Dane county, Wisconsin, until his demise in
1909, and the mother died there in 1910.
JIartin J. Engeseth attended the public and high schools of his native town and subse-
quently entered Valparaiso University at Valparaiso, Indiana, where he was graduated from
the business department in 189S. He remained at home until about twenty years of age and
when not attending school devoted his time to assisting his father. In 1902 he arrived in
Minot, North Dakota, and entered the employ of the Scofield Implement Company as book-
keeper. He held that position continuously until elected to the office of register of deeds.
He is prompt and accurate in his work, and his efficiency, combined with his courtesy, has
gained him tlie commendation of all who have had dealings with the register's oflBce. He
concentrates his attention upon liis ollicial duties but is also connected with the business
life of Minot. as he is interested financially in the Lidstrom Furniture Company.
On the 7th of June, 1900, Mr. Engeseth was united in rriarviage to !Miss Gertrude .John-
son, also a native of Dane county, Wisconsin, her birthplace being within four miles of that
of Mr. Engeseth. Her parents, Nels and Johanna Johnson, were born respectively in Norway
and in Wisconsin, and are both deceased.
Mr. Engeseth is a stalwart republican in politics, and his religious faith is that of the
Lutheran church. Fraternally he is well known, belonging to the Masonic blue lodge, the
chapter and commandery, to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Knights of Pythias
and the Elks, all of Minot. In the commandery he has served as secretary, and he is much
interested in the work of all of the orders to which he belongs. He conforms his life to
high standards, and the esteem in which he is generally held is well deserved.
FRANK H. FARMER, V. S.
Dr. Frank H. Farmer, who is successfully engaged in the practice of veterinary medicine
*nd surgery in Wahpeton, is also serving as assistant state veterinarian. A native of Ire-
land, his birth occurred on the 4th of October, 1864, and he is a son of William and Alice
(Soughan) Farmer, both natives of the Emerald isle. In 1871 they came with their family
to the United States and settled in Cambridgeport, Massachusetts, where they remained for
eight or ten years. They then went to Ontario, Canada, where the father passed away in
1912 at the age of seventy-nine years, as he was born in 1833. He was a carpenter and con
tractor by occupation. In his early manhood he served in the Crimean war and he remained
in the army until his emigration to the new world. For a number of years he held the ofTice
of paymaster and at all times he was faithful and efficient in the performance of his duty.
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 85
Wliile at the front he was twice wounded. His religious faith was that of the Episcopal
church, to the support of whicli he contributed. The mother, who was born in 1840, is still
living. To them were born three children: John, a musician who lives near Niagara Falls;
Frank H. ; and Mrs. R. H. Sawdon, of Spencerville, Ontario, whose husband is a farmer. The
paternal grandfather, Frank Farmer, passed his entire life in County Cork, Ireland.
Frank H. Farmer attended the common schools in Ontario and the United States, tl'.u
acquiring a good education. In 1885, when a young man of twenty-one years, he came to
North Dakota and settled in Grand Forks county, where he worked at anything that he could
find to do. In 1889, however, he entered a veterinary school in Chicago, from which he
was graduated in 1893. The following year he located in Wahpeton for the practice of his
profession. Almost from the start he has been well patronized and he has gained an enviable
reputation for the successful treatment of the diseases of animals. He devotes his entire time
to his practice and to the discharge of his duties as assistant state venterinarian under the
live stock board. He has also served as a member of the state board of examiners, having
been elected to that position in 1895 and again in 1910, holding that office until 1913, and he
is well known and highly esteemed in professional circles throughout the state.
Mr. Farmer is a republican in politics but, although he loyally supports that party at the
polls, he has never had time to take an active part in public affairs, as his large practice has
demanded his undivided time and attention. He has not only gained a gratifying measure
of success professionally, but has also won tlie personal goodwill and regard of those with
whom he has been brought into contact.
B. C. ANDERSON.
The activity of many energetic, enterprising men has made North Dakota a gi-eat agri-
cultural state. Cass county contains rich fanning land owned and occupied by various
progressive agriculturists, among which number is B. C. Anderson, who lives on section 6,
Pleasant township. He was born in Norway on the 19th of May, 1846, a son of Anders and
ICaru (Anderson) Anderson. The maternal grandfather lived to the very remarkable old
age of one hundred and three years. The parents of B. C. Anderson came to the United
States a year or two after his arrival and about a twelvemonth later the father passed
away, after which the mother made her home with her son.
At the usual age B. C. Anderson began his education in the public schools of Norway,
continuing his studies until he liad mastered tlie high school course, and while in his native
land he acquainted himself to a slight degree with the English language. Attracted by the
favorable reports which he heard concerning business conditions and opportunities in the
new world, he sailed for America in 1866, when a young man of twenty years, and after
landing on the eastern seaeoast crossed the country to St. Paul, Minnesota, where he hired
out to a Methodist minister who was the owner of a farm. His first wage was fifteen
dollars per month, with the privilege of attending school during the winter months. Mr.
Anderson remained in the employ of the minister for a year, after which he secured a posi-
tion with W. L. Benning, president of the first railroad built from St. Paul to Duluth. He
worked around the house, took care of the team and drove the surrey for the family. After
the completion of the railroad he was given a position in the engineering corps and served
in that capacity until the construction of the Northern Pacific Railroad was begun toward
Red river in 1869.
At that time or about 1870, B. C. Anderson and his brother Andrew came to the west
in advance of the railroad to look over the country, having heard much talk to the effect
that "whereever the Northern Pacific crossed the Red river would be built another Chicago."
In 1871 their brother John came to Cass county and worked on the steam boat Salt Creek,
Captain Griggs, on the Red river. He was accidently drowned near Pemberton, North
Dakota, and his body was never found. B. C. and Andrew Anderson were probably the
first white men in Cass county. After their visit here they returned to St. Paul and B. C.
Anderson worked on the same railroad on which he had previouslj' been employed. On the
13th of April, 1870, however, he took up his abode upon his present farm and afterward
86 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
filed oil a quarter section as a preemption. He was the first man in tlie townsliip to break
five acres of land. He early became familiar with every phase of pioneer life and with
every kind of work incident to the development of a new farm. He afterward bought
school lands and railroads lands until his holdings aggregated five hundred and sixty acres,
and he has resided upon his farm continuously for forty-six years. Great indeed have been
the changes which have occurred during this period. At the time of his arrival one could
look abroad over the country for miles. There were rolling prairies stretching far and wide,
with little token of the plow, and with no barrier fences, spangled in June with a million
flowers and in December covered with an unbroken sheet of dazzling snow. Today the
countryside has been divided into farms which are the homes of a contented and prosperous
people and the land has been made to yield richly, for the soil is naturally productive and
responds readily to the care and labor bestowed upon it.
In 1874 or 1875 Mr. Anderson was united in marriage to Miss Carrie Nilson, a native
of Norway who came to the United States in 1868. Prior to her marriage she worked at
Fort Aborcrombie for General Crittenden. Mr. Anderson was well acquainted with General
Crittenden and his son, who were killed by the Indians at the Custer massacre. Our sub-
ject and his wife have seven children, as follows: Albert, who cultivates a portion of the
home farm; Petra, who is the widow of T. H. S. Egge and makes her home in ^Moorhead,
Minnesota; Nellie, the wife of J. P. Larson, of Clyde, North Dakota; Laura, who gave her
hand in marriage to John B.. Bye, of Greenbush, Minnesota; William, who cultivates part
of the home farm; Henry, who lives at home and is engaged in farming in association with
his two brothers; and Milla, also at home.
In his political opinions Mr. Anderson has always been a republican and has closely
adhered to the principles of the party. He has served as school treasurer for sixteen years
and the cause of education finds in him a stalwart champion. He and his wife are members
of the Norwegian Lutheran church and he was one of the prominent factors in the building
of the church, which was erected upon his farm and which is the oldest west of Willmar,
Minnesota. In other ways he has contributed to the material, intellectual and moral prog-
ress of the community and no history of Cass county would be complete without mention
of this honored pioneer, who has done so much to further the upbuilding of the county
and who stood in the front rank in the vanguard of the civilization of this part of the state.
ANGUS Mcdonald.
Angus McDonald, the proprietor of the Dacotah Hotel at Minot, is one of the pioneers
of the city, having arrived there when its population consisted of a few families. His birth
occurred in Nova Scotia, Canada, May 7, 1865, and he is a son of William and Katherine
(McCloud) McDonald, both likewise born in that province. The father was a farmer and
was well known in his community. Although he took the interest of a good citizen in
public afTairs, he never aspired to ofTice. He passed away in Nova Scotia in 1002, as did
his wife, her demise occurring the day after he was buried.
Angus McDonald received his education in his native land and remained at home until
1882, when, at the age of seventeen years, he came to North Dakota and located at Fargo,
where he worked at blacksmithing, which trade he had previously learned. After about a
year he went to Lisbon, where he was similarly employed until 1884. He then removed
to Minot and for about twelve years worked at his trade, after which he turned his atten-
tion to other pursuits, engaging in coal mining at Burlington for about eighteen months.
At the end of that time he became connected with the hotel business in ISIinot and in the
fall of 1899 opened the Dacotah Hotel, erecting the present building at that time. For
about seven years he rented the property to others but since the expiration of that period
he has personally conducted the hotel. He understands the business thoroughly and spares
no effort in providing for the comfort and convenience of his guests. As the prices are
reasonable and the service excellent, the hotel has gained an excellent reputation and is
well patronized.
Mr. McDonald was married in March, 1888, to Miss Belle Currie, a native of Toronto,
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 87
Canada, and a daughter of Malcolm and Katherine Cunie. both of whom passed their entire
lives in that city. To this union has been born a daughter, Sibyl K., who is a graduate of the
Chicago Musical College at Chicago.
Mr. McDonald is a republican and in pioneer days served as deputy sheriff, discharging
in an able manner the duties devolving upon him. He was also for a number of years a
member of the Minot city council. He was reared in the Presbyterian church and frater-
nally he is identified with the Knights of Pythias, in which he has passed through all the
chairs. These associations indicate the principles which have governed his life and which
have gained him the respect of all who have come in contact with him. He is popular
personally and is recognized as a factor in the business growth of Minot.
HON. JOHN E. PAULSON.
Hon. John E. Paulson, senator from Traill county and one of its foremost business
men, has been connected wifli commercial interests in Hillsboro since 1880. His activities
have been an element in the material development of the city and a factor in promoting
public progress and prosperity. He was born in Carver county, Minnesota, March 3, 185G,
a son of Henry and Johanna (Person) Paulson, the former a native of Grue, Norway, and
the latter of Skane, Sweden. It was in the year 1850 that the father crossed the Atlantic
and two years afterward the mother made the voyage. They were pioneer farming people
of Minnesota. Mr. Paulson took up his abode at Carver when he arrived in the new world,
but his wife became a resident of St. Paul. They were married in 1854 and settled on a farm
in Carver county, where he resided for almost three decades or until 1883, when he came to
North Dakota, establishing his home in Eldorado township, Traill county. There he resided
up to the time of his death, which occurred in 1899, and in the interim success attended
his efforts in large measure and he became the owner of eight hundred acres of rich and
valuable land. He had long survived his wife, who passed away in Minnesota in 1874.
John E. Paulson was reared under the parental roof and supplemented his public
school education by study in the Gustavus Adolphus College, then located at Carver, Minne-
sota, but now at St. Peter, Minnesota. In 1877 he came to North Dakota, reaching Traill
county on the 9th of August. He became a resident of Caledonia, then the only town of
any consequence in the county, and secured a position in a mercantile and implement house
as a clerk. A year later he embarked in merchandising on his own account at Caledonia
and afterward extended the scope of his business to include implements. In the fall of
1880 he removed his stock to Hillsboro, where the business has been developed into one of
the most important commercial enterprises of Traill county. In 1891 he erected one of the
largest business blocks in the city and he carries a very extensive line of goods, so that
lie is able to meet the varied demands of the public. He has ever recognized that satisfied
customers are the best advertisement and his energy, close application and reliable dealing
have ever been recognized as salient features in his growing success. He has also become a
stockholder and is one of the board of directors of the First National Bank of Hillsboro,
with which he has been identified from its organization.
In January, 1881, Mr. Paulson was united in marriage to Miss Mabel D. King, her
father being James S. King, a retired farmer residing in Hillsboro. To them have been
born three children, two of whom survive, namely: Agnes H., the wife of R. G. Grant, of
Hillsboro; and Herbert H., who is employed in his father's store.
Fraternally Mr. Paulson is connected with Hillsboro Lodge, No. 10, F. & A. M., and
has attained the thirty-second degree of the Scottish Eite in Dakota Consistory, No. 1, S.
P. R. S., of Fargo. He is likewise a member of El Zagal Temple, A. A. 0. N. M. S., and in
October, 1915, the honorary thirty-third degree was confen-ed upon him in Fargo. His
wife is a member of the Congregational chiirch and socially they are prominent, having
an extensive circle of friends not only in Traill county, but also elsewhere in the state. In
his political views Mr. Paulson has ever been a republican, has served as chairman of the
republican central committee of Traill county for several years and is a member of the
state central committee. He filled the office of city alderman for several terms and was
88 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
for three terms maj-or of Hillsboro, giving to the city a businesslike, progressive and
public spirited administration. Still higher political honors awaited him, however, for in
1914 he was chosen senator from his district and is now connected with the upper house
of the legislative body of North Dakota, where he is serving on a number of important
committees. He has been connected with considerable important legislation and his cITorta
are of value in furthering the best interests of the commonwealth.
WILLIAM Mcdonald.
William McDonald, who carries on general farming, makes his home on section 10,
Gardner township, Cass county, where he has valuable and attractive property that includes
all the accessories and equipments of the model farm of the twentieth century. A native
of Canada, he was born September 22, 1853. and is a brother of Alexander McDonald, in
connection with whose sketch on another page of this work mention is made of the family.
At the usual age he began his education in the schools of Canada and when his textbooks
were put aside he turned his attention to the carpenter's trade, which he followed until he
came to North Dakota in 1879. He was then a young man of twenty-six years. He took
up a homestead claim, for Cass county was then upon the western frontier and much of
the land was still in possession of the government. The tract which he secured was situated
on section 10, Gardner township, and not a furrow had been turned nor an improvement
made upon the place, but with characteristic energy he began its development and after
breaking the sod planted the fields and in due time gathered good crops. As the years
have passed he has erected substantial buildings and has also planted a fine growth of
trees which constitutes an important and attractive feature of his place. As his financial
resources have increased he has added to his property from time to time by further pur-
chase and now owns six hundred and fifty acres of land constituting one of the fine farms
of this part of the state. Everything about the place is indicative of hi.s earnest care,
capable management and practical and progressive methods. In addition to his other
interests he is a stockholder in the Farmers Elevator Company at Gardner.
In 1880 Mr. McDonald was united in marriage to Miss Amanda Caldwell, a native of
Canada, by whom he has two sons: .John A., who married Miss Irma Cook and has one
child and who is now a resident of Wyoming; and Frank A., at home. Mrs. McDonald
passed away in 1887 and in the spring of 1893 Mr. McDonald married Jane Porter, of
Canada.
Mr. and Mrs. McDonald hold membership in the Congregational church, in which he ia
serving as one of the deacons. He takes a helpful part in the work of the church and con-
tributes liberally to its support. Politically he is a republican and for more than twenty
years has filled the office of assessor, while for over thirty years he has been on the school
board in his district. His interest centers in all those things which tend to advance the
welfare and promote the growth and prosperity of the community in which he lives. He
is indeed a public-spirited and progressive citizen and his worth is widely acknowledged
throughout Cass county.
JOHN J. NEDRELOE.
John J. Nedreloe, who took office as sheriff of Ward county in January. 1915, has
gained the commendation of all law-abiding citizens because of the capable and fearless
manner in which he has discharged his duties. He has resided in this county since 1904,
making his home in Kenmare until he removed to Minot. His birth occurred in Crawford
county, Wisconsin, on the 27th of December, 1875, and he is a son of Jens and Rangnild
(Olson) Nedreloe, both of whom were born in the vicinity of Bergen. Norway. In 1865
they emigrated to the United States and for tliiee years resided in Iowa, after which they
removed to Wisconsin, where the father passed away in May, 1913. He was a farmer
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 89
by occupation, gained a gratifying measure of success, was well known in his community
and held a number of township offices. His wife, who survives, still lives in Crawford
county, Wisconsin.
John J. Nedreloe, who is ninth in order of birth in a family of ten children, attended
the public schools, was later a student in the normal school at Decorah, Iowa, and after-
wards took a course in a business college at that place. When twenty years of age he
left home and went to North Dakota, remaining three years, then returned to Mount Ster-
ling, AVisconsin, where he became connected with a store. Four years later, or in 1901, he
removed to South Dakota, remained there for several months and then located in Courtenay,
North Dakota, later settling in Kenmare, Ward county. He engaged in the livery business
there until he was elected to the office of sheriff, in which capacity he has served since
January 4, 1915. He discharges his duties faithfully and holds the respect of all who have
come in contact with his office. AVhile he enforces the law strictly, he treats the prisoners
in the jail fairly and is in all respects an excellent sheriff. He has great faith in the future
of North Dakota and has invested in valuable farm land in the state.
Mr. Nedreloe was married on the 21st of August, 1915, to Miss Helen Anderson, who
was born in Christiania, Norway. She lost her father when but eight years of age, but
her mother is still living and still resides in that country. Mrs. Nedreloe emigrated to the
United States in 1907, but in 1914 returned to her native land on a visit. Mr. and Mrs.
Nedreloe have one child, Catharine, born May 19, 1916.
Mr. Nedreloe is a stalwart republican in politics and believes that its policies are
based upon sound principles of government. He is a member of the First Lutheran church
and in all relations of life seeks to conform his conduct to the highest standards of ethics.
EDWARD D. KELLEY.
Edward D. Kelley, now engaged in the ice business and in farming, is one of the well
known citizens of Minot and was formerly sheriff of Ward county. During his incumbency
in tliat office labor troubles occurred in Minot which tested severely his soundness of judg-
ment and his fairness, but he proved himself equal to the task of restoring order. A native
of Wisconsin, he was born in Winnebago county on the 4th of October, 1864, the tenth
child in a family of twelve children, whose parents were Richard and Ann (Norent) Kelley.
The father was born on Prince Edward Island. Canada, but the mother was a native of
Ireland. He was a farmer and followed that occupation in W^isconsin, where he passed away
in 1872. Eleven years later his wife removed to this state and located at Larimore, North
Dakota, where she resided until her demise, which occurred in 1910.
Edward D. Kelley left home when eleven years of age and worked for his board and
the privilege of attending school during the winters, while the summer months were
devoted entirely to farm work. After passing about three years in this manner he went
into the lumber woods of Wisconsin and while there was employed for some time as a log
driver on the Flambeau river. Upon leaving the Badger state in the fall of 1883 he removed
to Larimore, North Dakota, where he engaged in farming for a short time, but in 1886 he
came to Minot, buying buffalo bones on the way. After his arrival in Minot he engaged in
the retail liquor business for three or four years and during that time he purchased farm
land and also dealt in cattle to some extent. At length he disposed of the liquor business
and turned his attention to general merchandising, with wliich he was connected for about
four years, but in 1892 ho bought the business of the Minot Ice Company, which he still
owns and conducts. He has always given some attention to farming since his removal to
this state and in 1915 raised five hundred acres of wheat and oats. The oversight of the
operation of his farm and the management of his ice business demand his entire time and
attention and he derives a giatifying income from these interests. He is also a stockholder
in the Union National Bank.
Mr. Kelley was married April 24, 1894. to Miss Elizabeth Martin, who was born in
Waushara county, Wisconsin, near Poy Sippi, and is a daughter of Patrick and Ellen
(ilahoney) Martin. The father engaged in farming and continued to reside in Wisconsin
90 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
until his demise. Jlr. and Mis. Kclley liave tliroe children: Marie Ellen and Genevieve,
both at home; and Thomas X., who is attending the local schools.
Mr. Kellcj" gives his political allegicnce to the republican party and served for four years
as sheriir of Ward county, his term expiring on the )st of January, I'JIS. He held that
office at the time of the trouble with the Industrial Workers of the World at Minot and
while restoring order was in constant communication with the governor, who approved his
every move. By his course he won the hearty commendation of all law-abiding citizens and
proved himself both capable and fearless. He was a member of the first city council and
has served on that body several times since, in which capacity he has always done all in
his power to promote the general welfare. He belongs to the Elks and the Knights of
Pythias and has many friends both within and without those organizations. His religious
faith is that of the Roman Catholic church, wliose work he furthers in every way possible.
GILBERT E. EAMSTAD.
One of the enterprising and prosperous farmers of Pleasant township, Cass county, is
Gilbert L. Ramstad, who is living on section 10, and who belongs to that class of substantial
citizens that Korwaj^ has furnished to the new world and to whom is largely due the
development and upbuilding of Jlinnesota and the Dakotas. He was born in Korway on
the 21st of February, 1856, and is a brother of A. L. Ramstad, in whose sketch on another
page of this work is given an account of their parents. He was a little lad of twelve years
when the family crossed the Atlantic to the United States, making the voyage in 1869. He
had previously attended school in Norway and after coming to the new world he worked on
a farm in Houston county, Minnesota, until ho reached his twenty-first year. In 1877 he
arrived in North Dakota and took up his abode upon his present farm, where he has now
lived for thirty-nine years, entering his land as a homestead claim. To his original holdings
he has added until he now owns two hundred acres, constituting a rich and productive farm
from which he annually gathers substantial harvests. He has added to his place all the
modern improvements and equipments of the model farm property and in conducting the
work of the place follows mo.st progressive methods. He is also a stockholder in the Farm-
ers Elevator at Hickson.
In 1882 Mr. Ramstad was united in marriage to Miss Mina Hanson, a native of Norway,
who became his wife about six months after her emigration to the United States. To them
have been born nine children, as follows: Louisa; Hattie, the wife of Oscar Larson, of Bel-
trami, Minnesota; Nora, a teacher by profession; Ella, who is employed as a stenographer
at Fargo; Gerhardt; Anna, who is engaged in teaching; Jlinnie, who is preparing herself
for the work of a trained nurse; Victor; and Arthur.
In his political views Mr. Ramstad is a democrat and for several j'cars he served as a
member of the school board, but has never sought nor desired political office, preferring to
concentrate his energies upon his business affairs and other interests and duties. He and his
family are members of the Norwegian Lutheran church and their influence is always given
on the side of right, progress, truth, justice and improvement.
WILLIAM T>. HENRY.
William D. Henry, president of the Peoples State Bank of Wahpcton, Richland county,
is recognized as one of the most able bankers of the state and is a leader in the financial
circles of his town and county. A native of Ohio, he was bom at Wooster. a son of William
and Mary A. (Dwire) Henry, both of whom were natives of that place. The father was a
well-to-do merchant, manufacturer and coal operator and was widely known and highly
esteemed in his locality. His political allegiance was given to the republican party, frater-
nally he was a Mason and both he and his w-ife attended the Episcopal church. They were
the parents of three children, two of whom are now living, the brother of our subject being
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 91
Charles D. Henry, who is engaged in the banking business in Monterey, California. The
paternal grandfather, William Henry, removed from Pennsylvania to Ohio in an early day
in the history of the latter state and in 180S located in the town of Wooster, where he
resided during the remainder of his life. He was a man of independent means and engaged
in banking and in the land business. The maternal grandfather, Shafet Dwire, was bom
in JIaryland, but was an early settler of Ohio.
William D. Henry received his education in the public schools of Wooster and after
putting aside his textbooks in 1871 went to Waterloo, Iowa, where he became a clerk in a
bank. In 1880 he arrived in Wahpeton, North Dakota, and accepted a position as book-
keeper and assistant cashier in the Peoples Bank there, of which he became cashier in 1887,
a position which he held for fourteen years. His business acumen and executive ability
■were still further recognized in 1901, when he was made president of the institution, in
which capacity he is still serving. The bank was established by F. L. French, a prominent
business man and banker of Wahpeton, who remained as its chief executive until his
demise in 1900. The bank was then reorganized as the Peoples State Bank, by which name
it is still known. It is capitahzed for twenty thousand dollars, has a surplus and undivided
profits of twenty thousand dollars and average deposits of two hundred and fifty thousand
dollars. The stock is held by a small number of people and its value as an investment is
indicated by the fact that not a single share has been transferred since its organization. It
has prospered from its organization and the wise policy instituted by its founders has
been carried on by Mr. Heniy, who is not only thoroughly familiar with the routine of
banking practice, but also understands the principles of finance underlying all banking pro-
cedure and keeps in touch with local business conditions.
Mr. Henry casts his ballot in support of the republican party, but has never had time
to take an active part in politics as his business interests have required his entire atten-
tion. He is identified with the Masonic blue lodge, the Koyal Arch chapter, the Knights
Templar commandcry, the Scottish Rite bodies and the Mystic Shrine and seeks to exem-
plify in his life the beneficent teachings of the craft. He is at present serving as captain
general of the Grand Commandery of North Dakota. His enterprise and business ability
have enabled him to gain financial independence and his public spirit and integrity have
won for him the esteem of those who have been associated w-ith him.
WILLIAM A. PECK.
One of the important factors in the nation-wide movement to make farming more effi-
cient and to make the conditions of farm, life more attractive is the county agricultural
agent, whose business it is to keep the farmers in his county informed as to the advance-
ment that is being made in all lines that touch upon farm life and to work with them in
bringing about feasible improvements. William A. Peck, the county agent of Ward county,
is residing in Minofr and has proved very efficient in the discharge of his varied duties.
He was born at Acton, Indiana, the eldest of a family of four children born to the
union of U. A. and Emma (Anderson) Peck. Tlie father's birth occurred in Ohio in 1848
and the mother's in Indiana in 1858. In his early manhood U. A. Peck engaged in news-
paper work and also studied law. He was admitted to the bar and practiced to some extent
but for a considerable period has devoted his attention to farming. About 1883 he removed
to St. Paul, Minnesota, where he worked on newspapers until his health b^an to fail and
he turned his attention to farming. He is now living upon a ranch in Montana, which he
owns although he leaves the actual work of its operation to others. During the Civil war
he served as a private in Company B, Third Ohio Volunteer Cavalry, remaining at the front
for two years. Although he was never wounded he was confined in a hospital for some
time because of illness.
William A. Peck attended the graded schools in the Twin Cities and high ^hool in
Indiana, and subsequently entered the University of Minnesota, from which he was grad-
uated with the class of 1906, with degree of Bachelor of Science. When twelve years of
.age he began to pay his own expenses, earning money by selling papers and by doing other
92 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
things suited to bis age. When nineteen years old he went to Minneapolis and worked his
way through the University of Minnesota, thus displaying the qualities of enterprise and
determination which have been such important factors in his subsequent success. Follow-
ing his graduation from the university he became connected with the department of agri-
culture at Washington, in the capacity of agriculturist in charge of the section of farm
economics, remaining there for four years. At the end of that time he became interested in
Montana land and engaged in ranching there for about three years, after which, in the
spring of 1912, he came to North Dakota. He was made agricultural agent of Ward county
and took up his residence in llinot, where he has since lived. The office is supported jointly
by the federal government, the state and the county, the latter assessing a tax on all
property for that purpose. He keeps the farmers in touch with all of the work done by
the United States department of agriculture that would be of value to them and is active
in various farmers' organizations. He gives careful study to the problems of marketing
crops as well as to those that concern their production and seeks to cooperate with the
farmers in every way possible. Not only is he interested in the scientific and business
phases of farm life but also in the work of the rural schools, in the upbuilding of the
country churches and increasing the attractiveness of farm homes. He still owns land in
Montana and also holds title to land in North Dakota, but he rents his farms to others,
devoting his entire attention to the work of his office.
Jlr. Peck was married on the 14th of October. 1908, to Miss Anna Adel Thompson, who
was born in Cottage Grove, Minnesota, and is a daughter of Peter and Gertrude (Wilkins)
Thompson, natives respectively of Denmark and of Cottage Grove, Minnesota. The father
is still engaged in farming in that state. Mr. and Mrs. Peck are the parents of three chil-
dren: Wendell Thompson, whose birth occurred February 16, 1910; Helen Spurier, born
February 24, 1912; and William, Jr., February 2, 1915.
Mr. Peck is independent in politics, voting according to the dictates of his judgment
rather than according to the commands of a party leader. Fraternally he is associated with
the Masonic blue lodge at Minot and is an e.xemplary member of the craft. He is a member
of the Sigma Xi, an honorary society for the advancement of science; the Minot Association
of Commerce; and the National Farm Management Association. He takes the greatest
interest in his work, is well liked thioughout the county and with the cooperation of the
farmers has accomplished a great deal along the line of agricultural advancement.
HON. WILLI AJI P. PORTEKFIELD.
Hon. William P. Porterfield is a member of the state senate and also of the board of
park commissioners of Fargo and his public service has been an effective force in promoting
public progress. He figured, too, for an extended period as a leading factor in commercial
circles of Fargo, where for thirty years he was a member of the firm of Font & Porterfield,
well known druggists, but at the present time he is living retired from business. He was
born in Martinsl)urg, W^est Virginia, December 20, 1856, a son of William R. and Ellen
(O'Npal) Porterfield. The father's birth occurred in what was then Jhirtinsburg, Virginia,
now West Virginia, while the mother was born across the Potomac river in Maryland. The
former lived and died at the place of liis nativity after devoting the years of his active
life to agricultural pursuits.
William P. Porterfield acquired his education at home under the direction of a private
tutor, supplemented by a course in Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, from which institution
he was graduated in the class of 1879. He afterward clerked for three years as a phar-
macist and in 1882 came to Dakota territory, where with others he founded the town of
Davenport, Cass county. For ten years he was prominently identified with the business
interests of the town, conducting a drug store, but in 1892 disposed of the store and for
two years traveled. In ^March, 1894, he removed to Fargo, where in company with Henry
M. Font he purchased the drug business of M. D. Fleming and organized the firm of Fout &
Porterfield, a relation that was maintained for a decade. At the end of that time he acquired
his partner's interest and for ten years conducted the business independently, although
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 93
retaining the original firm name. On the 1st of December, 1913, he disposed of his store in
order to give his attention to his investments. He now owns three hundred and twenty
acres of land near Fargo, the cultivation of which he personally supervises, and also con-
trols sixteen hundred acres of land, being guardian for the owners, so that he is now actively
engaged in farming nineteen hundred and twenty acres. He is also a director in the Mer-
chants National Bank and his cooperation with any movement constitutes an element in its
success, his activities serving as a stimulus for accomplishment.
In politics Mr. Porterfield has long been an earnest democrat, recognized as a party
leader in his state, and in November, 1912, he was elected to the state senate notwithstand-
ing the fact that the usual republican majority is about three to one. He was the first
democrat ever honored with election to the senate from his .district, a fact indicative of
his personal popularity and the confidence reposed in him. In 1910 upon the organization
of the park system of Fargo, he was elected a member of the park board and at the expira-
tion of his first term of office in 1915 was reelected and for two years has acted as president
of the board. He is also serving on the state board of pharmacy and is a member of the
executive committee of the national board of pharmacists — an honor of which North Dakota
has reason to be proud, as there are but five members of this board selected from thirty-
four active states in the association. Mr. Porterfield holds membership in the Benevolent
Protective Order of Elks and he attends and contributes to the support of the Episcopal
church. He has ever been a man of resolute spirit, prompt, energetic and notably reliable
and he has in large measure the genius for devising and executing the right thing at the
right time.
JOHN E. HUDSON.
John E. Hudson, of Forman, who is filling the office of register of deeds in Sargent
coimty, was born in the state of New York, December 10, 1862. His father, George W.
Hudson, a native of England, came to America when a youth of thirteen years and settled
in Cayuga county. New York. He learned and followed the carpenter's trade and continued
to make his home in the Empire state until called to his final rest in 1883. He wedded Emily
J. Emrick, who was born in Cayuga county,- New York, and they had a family of seven
children, of whom John E. is the third in order of birth, and six of the number are yet
living. The mother passed away in July, 1915.
John E. Hudson pursued his education in the district and village schools of New York
and in March, 1884, when a young man of twenty-two years, arrived in North Dakota,
establishing his home in Kingston township, Sargent county. There he remained until 1900,
at which time he removed to Havana, where he entered the grain business ,continuing there
until he came to Forman in 1913. He still remains a stockholder of the Havana Elevator
Company but his time and attention are mainly given to the faithful discharge of the duties
of the office which he now holds. He has always been a republican in his political views and
on that ticket was elected to the office of register of deeds in January, 1913. In 1914 he
was reelected to the position, which he is now filling in a most satisfactory manner. He
has also served as supervisor of Kingston township and as president of the village board
of Havana and in the discharge of his official duties has ever been most capable, prompt and
faithful.
Mr. Hudson was married in 1898 to Miss Mary Herring, who was born in Illinois in
1868, a daughter of John E. and Nancy G. Herring, who removed to North Dakota in the
spring of 1882, settling near the town of Ransom. Mr. Herring was one of the first three
commissioners appointed by the governor and the first meeting of the board was held at
his home. His wife was the first superintendent of schools to be appointed in the county,
and in many other ways they took an active part in shaping the material, cultural! and
political development of the locality. Both are now deceased. In their family were five
children, of whom Mrs. Hudson is the fourth, and three of the number are yet living. By
her marriage she has become the mother of three children: Harriet, born August 9, 1899;
Harlow, May 5, 1906; and Ruth, July 17, 1908.
94 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
From early manliood Mr. Hudson has continuously made Ids liome in North Dakota,
Iccenly alive to the possibilities of its development and sharing in all of the work that has
contributed to the advancement and upbuilding of the district in which he lives.
HON. ELMORE YOCUM SARLES.
Hon. Elmore Yocum Sarles was the ninth governor of North Dakota and has long been
recognized as a leader of public thought and action in this state. Moreover, he belongs to
the little group of distinctively representative business men who have been the pioneers
in inaugurating and building up the chief industries of this section of the country. He early
had the sagacity and prescience to discern tlie eminence which the future had in store for
this great and arrowing country and, acting in accordance with the dictates of his judgment,
he has garnered in the fullness of time the generous harvest which is the just recompense
of indomitable industry, spotless integrity and marvelous enterprise.
He comes of an ancestry distinctly American in both the lineal and collateral lines,
being represented in the new world from early colonial days. His father, the Eev. Jesse D.
Sarles, was born in Dutchess county, New York, and became a distinguished representative
of the Methodist ministry, devoting his entire life to that holy calling. In 1842 lit became
a resident of Racine, Wisconsin, and in that state reared his family, two of his sons having
since become prominent in connection with the history of North Dakota.
A native of Wisconsin, Elmore Y. Sarles was born at Wonewoc, on the lath of January,
1859, and after mastering the branches of learning taught in the public schools, attended
the Galesville University. The year 1881 witnessed his arrival in North Dakota, at which
time he made his way to Traill county, then an undeveloped and unimproved district. His
keen business "sagacity has found justification in the later progress of that part of the state.
He believed there was a bright future before it and, acting in accordance with the dictates
of his faith and judgment, he became identified with business interests there, and entered
upon a notably successful career. He recognized the fact the great need of the coiintry was
money with which to develop its resources and accordingly he organized the Traill C(mnty
Bank at Hillsboro, undertaking to furnish money to the settlers and thus aid in the improve-
ment of the district. In 1885 that institution was converted into the First National Bank.
Success attended the venture from the beginning, its patronage steadily growing. He followed
a liberal polioy, doing everything in his power to aid early settlers that did not jeopardize
the interests of depositors or stockholders. From time to time he extended the scope of his
activities and became interested in enterprises which had much to do with the progress and
development of the country. He became one of the organizers of the Valley Lumber Com-
pany, which soon built up a large business in the rapidly developing country, its sales
extending all over Traill and adjoining counties. The name of E. Y. and 0. C. Sarles became
most widely known in connection with the business of upbuilding North Dakota and in all
their activities they anticipated the needs of a growing country. More than two million
dollars were brought in and devoted to the needs of the bank and it is indicative of the
character of Mr. Sarles, of his lenient policy and his keen sagacity in judging human nature
that he never had to foreclose a first mortgage. He was a leader in all those activities which
led to the substantial growth and improvement of the state. He looked beyond the exigen-
cies of the moment to the possibilities of the future and became a most conspicuous figure
in financial circles. Banks were established or acquired at Caledonia and Grandin, North
Dakota, and at Shelly, ^Minnesota, and the First National Bank of Northwood was purchased
in after years, also the F'irst State Bank of Blanchard, and Mr. Sarles became one of the
organizers and vice president of the Northwestern Trust Company of Grand F'orks. He was
ever one of the foremost figures in the development of the Red river valley and his extensive
and important business afi'airs brought him such a wide acquaintance and gained him such
a recognition of his business ability that he was brought into public life by an cfi'ort on the
part of his friends who desired hira to become a candidate for governor.
While appreciative of the honor they would have conferred upon him, he had no special
ambition to become prominent in public alTairs and took no active part in securing the noml-
HON. ELMORE Y. SARLES
TJl.
*
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 97
nation, which went to Governor White. He was at that time, as he had been for years,
engrossed in business affairs of moment, and he considered the pursuits of private life
abundantly worthy his best efforts. He had, however, been an ardent republican from the
time that age conferred upon him the right of franchise and he had served as mayor of
Hillsboro and as a member of the state normal school board. His public service as well
as his private business interests made him widely known far beyond the borders of his state
as a typical resident of Dakota. People came to recognize in him one who was capable of
handling extensive and important interests, who brought to the solution of vital problems
sound judgment, clear discrimination and public spirit and when in 1904 the republicans of
the state sought a candidate for the office of governor the choice of the party fell upon him
and at the ensuing election he was chosen for office by the largest majority any governor
of North Dakota ever received before or since. In the' discharge of his onerous and respon-
sible duties he brought to bear the same keen judgment that he had displayed in the man-
agement of his private business interests. He was indeed an executive and he studied every
question from the standpoint of public utility and merit. In spite of the fact that during
his administration there was expended a quarter million dollars made necessary by law there
was left a surplus of two hundred thousand dollars in the treasury. In retiring from the
office of chief executive he carried with him the loj'e and confidence and the high esteem of
the people throughout the state.
On the 10th of January, 1886, Governor Sarles was married to Miss Anna York, of
Prescott, Wisconsin. To them have been born four children: Earle, who is cashier of the
First National Bank of Hillsboro, North Dakota; Duane and Doris, twins; and Eleanor.
Governor Sarles is a very prominent llason. having received the honorary thirty-third
degree and having served as potentate of El Zagal Temple, A. A. 0. U. M. S., of Fargo. He
also belongs to the Knights of Pythias and was formerly exalted ruler of the Grand Forks
lodge of the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks. The specific and distinctive office of
biography is not to give voice to a man's modest estimate of himself and his accomplish-
ments, but rather to leave the perpetual record establishing his character by the consensus
of opinion on the part of his fellowmen. Throughout North Dakota Mr. Sarles is spoken
of in terms of admiration and respect. His life has been so varied in its activities, so hon-
orable in its purposes, so far-reaching and beneficial in its effects that it has become an
integral part of the history of the state.
FEED WILLIAMS.
Opportunity ever eludes the grasp of the man who shirks his duties and his responsi-
bilities and it tauntingly plays before the dreamer but surrenders to the man of resolute
purpose and determination, yielding its reward in substantial and honorable success. Fred
Williams of Cass county is one who has ever recognized and utilized his opportunities to the
fullest extent and he is now a prominent figure in the business circles of his part of the
state, being identified with both commercial and financial interests at Arthur. He was
bom in New York, .June 2fi, 1866, and is a son of James and Bessie Williams, who were
likewise natives of the Empire state, in which they remained throughout their entire lives.
Their family numbered eight children, six of whom survive.
In his youthful days Fred Williams largely devoted his attention to the acquirement
of an education in the public schools of New York and there remained until he reached
the age of twenty, when he determined to test the truth of the reports concerning the
business conditions and opportunities of the west. The year 1886 witnessed his arrival in
North Dakota, at which time he took up his abode at Hunter and entered the employ of
J. H. Gale, recognized as the leading business man of the district. He remained with Mr.
Gale for five years at Hunter and in 1891 came to Arthur, where as a partner of Mr. Gale
he embarked in general merchandising and in the hardware business. Here he has since
remained, conducting their interests, and has built up a trade of large and gratifying pro-
portions. He carries an excellent stock of general merchandise and of hardware and in
both lines his business has grown in a most substantial manner. "He also figures promi-
Vol. II— 6
98 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
iicntly in banking circles as the president of the First State Bank of Arthur and he is a
stockliolder in the Farmers Klevator of the town. He has likewise utilized his chance of
making judicious investment in property and is now the owner of seven sections of land in
Cass county, all in the vicinity of Artliur, and in addition lie owns a half interest in six
sections of land, in wliich he is a partner of Mr. Gale.
Mr. Williams belongs to the Masonic fraternity, in which he has taken the degrees of
the lodge and chapter and also of the Scottish Kite and he likewise belongs to the Mystic
Shrine. His life measures up to the high standards of manhood set by this order. In politics
he is a republican and for sixteen years he filled the ofTice of postmaster at Arthur, making
a most creditable record in that connection. Mr. Williams deserves much credit for what he
has accomplished, his success being the result of ability, determination, persistency of pur-
pose and laudable ambition. That he proved himself most trustworthy is indicated by the
fact that his employer admitted him to a partnership and together they have advanced, the
careful management of their common interests bringing prosperity to both.
REV. E. .J. WISNAES.
Rev. R. J. Wisnaes is a well known minister of the Norwegian Lutheran church, whose
labors are proving a most potent element in promoting moral progress in Cass county, where
he has charge of three different congregations, tlie North Pleasant, the South Pleasant and
the Lower Wild Rice and Red River. He makes his home on section 37, Pleasant township,
in which locality the North Pleasant congregation erected the North Pleasant church. He is
one of the county's honored pioneer settlers and highly esteemed citizens. He was born in
Norway, January 4, 1852, a son of John R. and Eli R. (Augsburg) Wisnaes, both of whom
spent their entire lives in the land of the midnight sun.
Rev. R. J. Wisnaes remained under the parental roof until he attained his thirteenth
year and received a thorough educational training in the public schools, after which he left
home to make his living and in 1S71 sailed for the United States. He reached Wells, Min-
nesota,' on the 4th of July of that year and there took up his abode. He had borrowed
fifty-five dollars for passage money and on reaching AVells was practically penniless. He
possessed energy and determination, however, and almost immediately secured work on a
farm, spending the succeeding two years in farm labor and also at carrying brick in the
brickyards of the district, working in that way before the harvest season began. During
all this time ho entertained the purpose of preparing himself for the ministry and utilized
every opportunity to secure means to further his plans. In January, 1873, he entered Luther
College, at Decorah, Iowa, and there attended school until 1ST6, spending the vacation periods
in farm work in order to enable him to pay his way through college. In the fall of 1876
he became a student in the Luther Seminary at Madison, Wisconsin, and from that institu-
tion received his theological degree in the spring of 1879. On the 31st of August of the
same year he was ordained to the ministry at Northfield, Minnesota, and on the 9th of
September following came to North Dakota. Through the intervening period of thirty-
seven years he has devoted his time to church work in Richland and Cass counties and
throughout the entire period, save for a year and a half, has resided in the latter county.
Hi.s present charge covers the North Pleasant and South Pleasant congregation!^ and the
Lower Wild Rice and Red River congregation. The South Pleasant congregation i- in Rich-
land county. He has exerted a strong inlluence for good among the people of this part of
the state. He is an earnest and ofttimes eloquent preacher and his utterances ring with the
logic of truth.
On the 6th of January, 1880, Rev. Wisnaes was married to Miss Amelia Bredensen, the
ceremony being performed at Perry, Wisconsin. Mrs. Wisnaes was bom in Wisconsin, and
by her marriage became the mother of three children. Klida Marie, John Carlot and Agnes
Benedicta. Mrs. Wisnaes passed away in .Tune, 1892, and on the 3l8t of October, 1893, he
was married to Miss Mina Bergith Stensrud, who was likewise born in Wisconsin but emi-
grated to Dakota territory in 1871. This union has been blessed with six children: Kmilie
Miranda, Ruth Inaiida, Jimma Victoria, Esther Monica, Ingvar William and Oscar Ferdinand.
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 99
Rev. Wisnaes owns and occupies a farm of eighty acres on' section 14, Pleasant town-
ship, Cass county, which he took up as a tree claim soon after arriving in this state. His
political allegiance is given to the republican party and he is not neglectful of the duties of
citizenship but keeps well informed on the issues of the day and advocates high standards
in relation to tlie public welfare. He is continually studying and reading along lines that
render his work more effective and moreover, he is not only a man of broad scholarly attain-
ments but also a man of deep human sympathy, which constitutes one of the elements of
his successful Christian work.
SIMON OVERGARD, M. D.
Dr. Simon Overgard, a representative physician and surgeon of Minot. is a Norwegian
by birth and manifests the sterling qualities of liis race. He was born about eighty miles
north of Christiania March 4, 1874, a son of Ingmar and Theodora (Mohr) Overgard. The
father, who is a native of the same place as his son Simon, is a farmer by occupation, but
is now living retired in Norway. The mother was likewise born in Norway, although her
father's birth occurred in . Germany.
Dr. Simon Overgard, who is the oldest in a farailj- of four children, attended school in
Christiania and after completing his general education entered the universitj' of Cliristiania,
from which he was graduated in 1902. Since coming to this countrj' he has taken post
graduate courses at the Chicago Policlinic and is constantly increasing his knowledge by
study and reading. When about twenty-seven years of age he became an assistant to the
staif of physicians in a hospital in Norway and was connected with different hospitals in
that country until May, 1906, when he came to the United States. He traveled over the
country for a few months, as he desired to learn something of various sections before
, locating permanently. In August of that year, he opened an office for practice in Enderlin,
Ransom county, and remained there until 1913, since which year he has resided in Minot.
He has gained a large and representative general practice and is held in high esteem by his
colleagues. Natural ability and thorough training have well fitted him for his chosen pro-
fession and his gratifying success is well deserved. He has demonstrated his faith in the
future of North Dakota by investing in a half section of land west of Minot, from which
lie derives a good financial return.
Dr. Overgard was married in October, 1909, to Miss Ena Johnson, a native of Sweden.
Her father passed away in that country, but her mother is still living there. Dr. Overgard
has supported the democratic party since becoming a naturalized citizen of the United States
and while living in Enderlin served as county physician of Ransom county. He is a member
of the Northwestern Medical Association and the North Dakota Medical Society and is a
fellow of the American Association and finds the proceedings of these organizations of
value in keeping in touch with the advanced thought and practice of the profession. He is
also a member of the Medical Association of Christiania, Norway. He is well known in
Minot and Ward county and has gained the warm personal regard of many.
JAMES A. DWYER.
James A. Dwyer, a well known attorney residing in Hankinson, Richland county, was
born in Akron, Ohio, on the 1st of May, 1861, a son of Andrew and Catherine (Dwyer)
Dwyer. The father, who was born in Ireland in 1828, died in November, 1898, and the
mother, whose birth occurred in 1835, passed away in October, 1902. They were married
in Ohio, where the father had removed as a young man. On beginning his independent
career he went to Australia from Ireland and for a time he worked on a ship. He then
came to America and was foreman in the building of the old Erie Railroad and subsequently
entered the employ of the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railroad, being one of the first
agents of that road in Wisconsin. He also followed agricultural pursuits in that state. He
992301]
100 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
served in the Union army in tlio latter jjiirt of tlie Civil war and pavticii}atcd in the second
battle of Nashville. In politics he was a democrat and he served as county treasurer and
county commissioner of Sauk county, Wisconsin. His religious faith was that of the Cath-
olic church. To him and his wife wei'e born eleven children, six of whom are still living,
namely: James A.; William, a prosperous farmer living in Loretta, Wisconsin; Thomas, a
lumber cruiser of northern Minnesota; Andrew, who lives in Bear Valley, Wisconsin, and
has gained gratifying success as a general merchant and implement dealer; Maria, the wife
of James P. Smitli, a rethcd farmer, who is now in the meat business at Madison, Wiscon-
sin: and Mary, the wife of M. J. Griffin, a traveling man of Baraboo, Wisconsin. The
paternal grandfather died in Ireland, and the grandmother passed away in AustraMa.
James A. Dwycr received an excellent education, attending the schools at Pewaukeo,
Wisconsin, and the University of Wisconsin for one year, beginning his law studies at the
latter institution. He then went to Milwaukee and learned telegraphy, which he foUowoti
for eleven years, during which time he continued his preparation for the practice of law.
He was admitted to the bar of North Dakota on the 29th of March, 1898, but had practiced
his profession for two years previously. Since his admission to the bar he has practiced
in Ilankinson and has met with a gratifying measure of success, his clients coming from
all parts of this section and from Minnesota. He has also served as attorney for the Soo
Line since 1900, and it is well recognized by his colleagues and by the general public that
he is well versed in the law and that he is convincing in his presentation of his cause in the
court. He owns lands in McLean county and AVilliams county. North Dakota.
On the 26th of April, 1890, Mr. Dwyer married Miss Lillian D. Pettit, a native of Syra-
cuse, New York, who came to North Dakota with her sister about 1888. Mr. Dwyer is inde-
pendent in politics, believing that the welfare of the country can best be served by voting
for the best man irrespective of party. His religious faith is that of the Roman Catholic
church, whose teachings have guided him throughout life. He is not only respected for his
professional attainments but is also held in high esteem because of his integrity and probity.
JOHN SCHLAET.
John Schlaet is one of the venerable citizens ;nid honored pioneer settlers of North
• Dakota, having made his home in Cass county since 1880. He has witnessed many changes
during the intervening years as the work of development and progress has been carried
forward, converting the county from a wild frontier district into one of the populous and
prosperous counties of this part cf the state. Moreover, his life record proves what can be
accomplished when determination and energy lead the way and may well serve as an
example to others who wish to attain honorable success.
Mr. Schlaet was born in Germany, March 22, 1837, a son of Christ J. and Dorothea J.
Schlaet, who were likewise natives of the same country and never left that land. They had
a family of two sons, the elder being Fred, now a resident of Minnesota.
The younger, John Schlaet, was reared and educated in Germany and in 1SG8, when
thirty-oni' years of age, came to the new world, hoping to find better business conditions
than he could secure in his native land. He first made his way to Minnesota, but before
coming to America he had followed the sea for two years, making several trips across the
Atlantic. On reaching Minnesota he took up his abode upon a farm and spent about six
years in that state, devoting his time to general agricultural pursuits. While there he lost
his left arm in a threshing machine and was thus handicapped, but has never allowed this
misfortune to discourage or dishearten him. In ISSO he arrived in North Dakota, settling
upon a farm on section 1, Amenia township. He immediately set to work to develop and
improve the property and has added to it many substantial buildings, good fences and the
latest improved machinery. To his original purchase he has added from time to time until
he is now the owner of four hundred and eighty acres of rich and productive land and has
also given a farm to each of his stepsons. At the present time he is living retired in Arthur
and is reaping the benefits of his earnest and persistent toil.
In 1873 Mr. Schlaet was married to Carolina Goda, a native of Germany, and they
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 101
became the parents of three children : Anna, who is now married and lives in California;
Emma, the wife of R. Siebert; and one who is deceased. Mrs. Schlaet had been previously-
married and by her iirst union had the following children: William, Fred, Gustav, Herman,
John, one who died in Minnesota and two who died in Germany.
Mr. and Mrs. Schlaet are members of the German Lutheran church and have ever been
faithful to its teachings. In politics he is a republican and has served as road supervisor
but has never been a politician in the usually accepted sense of office seeking. He and his
wife liave made all they have since coming to the new world and they deserve much credit
for their progress and advancement. Earnest, persistent labor has been the foundation of
their prosperity, which has increased with the passing years until they are now enabled to
live retired, occupying a pleasant home in Arthur, while their income is sufficient to bring
them the comforts of life.
ANDREW SANDAGER.
Andrew Sandager, an active representative of Lisbon's business interests, his attention
being given to the conduct of a general mercantile establishment, was born in Decorah,
Iowa, on the 31st of August, 1862, a son of Endre and Randhild (House) Sandager, both of
whom were natives of Norway, whence they came to the United States in young manhood
and womanhood. They became residents of Winneshiek county, Iowa, where they were
married and established their home, continuing their residence there until called to their
final rest. The father was a very successful and prosperous farmer and acquired more than
nine hundred acres of valuable farming land in that state.
Andrew Sandager was educated in the common schools of Iowa and afterward took up
the study of pharmacy in a drug store in Decorah, where he thoroughly acquainted himself
with the business. In 1882 he came to North Dakota, settling in Grafton, where he entered
the employ of the firm of Sandager & Burger, general merchants, the senior partner being
liis brother. On the 16th of February, 1884, he removed to Lisbon, where he organized
the mercantile firm of Sandager & Haugen, which firm continued in existence until 1913, in
which year Mr. Haugen passed away. In February, 1914, the business was incorporated
as the Chiacgo Store, with Mr. Sandager as vice president and general manager. For almost
a third of a century he has been continuously associated with mercantile interests in Lisbon
and has made his establishment an expression of the ^progressiveness which has marked the
development of the city. Broadening the scope of his activities, Mr. Sandager was for many
years a most active factor in banking circles, having in 1893 purchased an interest in the
State Bank of Lisbon, of which institution he remained. the president for eighteen years.
His fellow townsmen have learned to rely upon his judgment, to sanction the wisdom of his
course and at all times the reliability of his methods has commended him to the confidence
and goodwill of those with whom he has been associated.
In 1895 Mr. Sandager was united in marriage to Miss Carrie Jensen, a native of Nor-
way, by whom he has a son, Harold W., whose birth occurred June 19, 1896, and who is now
secretary of the Chicago Store. Fraternally Mr. Sandager is identified with the following
organizations: Sheyenne Valley Lodge, No. 12, A. F. & A. M.; Lisbon Chapter, No. 7, R.
A. M.; Ivanhoe Commandery, K. T.; El Zagal Temple, A. A. 0. N. M. S., of Fargo; the
Ancient Order of United Workmen; the Independent Order of Foresters; the Order of Ameri-
can Yeomen; the subordinate lodge and encampment of the Independent Order of Odd Fel-
lows; Fargo Lodge, No. 13, B. P. 0. E.; and the Knights of Pythias lodge at Lisbon, of
whicli he is a life member. Both Mr. and Mrs. Sandager are members of the Norwegian
Lutheran church, which they assisted in organizing and which they have always generously
supported. Extensive and important as are his business and fraternal connections, 'Mr.
Sandager is also recognized as a leader in political circles. He has been a lifelong republican
and was a member of the constitutional convention of North Dakota which aided in frarn-
ing the organic law of the state. He was also a member of the first state senate and for
sixteen years he was chairman of the county republican central committee, wliile in 1912
he was a delegate to the national convention which nominated William Howard Taft. In
102 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA'
that year lie took the First Regiment Band to Minot, North Dakota, to the convention
held for the election of delegates to the national convention. He has served in various local
offices and Ransom county numbers him among her most prominent and valued citizens — a
man whom she is proud to name as a representative of her progressiveness and as a type
of her citizenship.
HON. SVEN E. LXSAKER.
Important interests have been furthered and promoted through the efforts and ability
of Hon. Sven E. Ulsaker, a representative agriculturist of Cass county and one who has
represented his district in the state legislature. He now makes his home on section 3.5,
Normanna township, where he has excellent farm property. He was born at Hemsedal,
Norway, on the 3d of June, 1853, and is a son of Andrew and Margaret Ulsaker, both of
whom died in Norway. His education was acquired in the public schools of his native coun-
try, where he remained until he attained his majority, when in 1S74 he completed arrange-
ments to come to the new world. Crossing the Atlantic he took up his abode at Kenyon,
Goodhue county, Minnesota, where he worked through tlie summer on a farm and during
the winter attended school, doing chores on the farm for his board. In the spring of 1875
he arrived in Cass county, North Dakota, and on the 23d of June of that year filed on his
present home farm of one hundred and sixty acres, which he secured under the preemption
right. All about Lim was the broad undeveloped prairie, covered with its native grasses
and showing no trace of any plow. He built a small log cabin twelve by twelve feet, with
a sod roof and board floor and in that primitive home began life in the west in true pioneer
style, meeting with many hardships, privations and dlfticulties during the early days. He
subsequently purchased other lands and now owns four hundred acres, constituting a very
valuable and productive farm. He is also a stockholder in the Farmers Elevator Company
at Kindred and is a stockholder in the Farmers Cooperative Cicamery Company of that place.
In 1882 Mr. Ulsaker was united in marriage to Miss Ingeborg Brujord, of Norway.
She emigrated to this country in 1881. To this union ha.ve been born six children: Ada
Mathilda, Andrew, Anna, Oscar, Mabel and Selma. The daughter Mabel is engaged in teach-
ing school and all the children are still under the parental roof.
Mr. Ulsaker and his family are members of the Norwegian Lutheran church and are
highly esteemed in the community where they reside and where their circle of friends is
almost coextensive with the circle of their acquaintances. Mr. Ulsaker is a republican in
his political views, active as a party worker, and again and again he has been called to
local office. For. a quarter of a century or more he has been a member of the school board
and the cause of education finds in him a stalwart champion. For twenty years he has
served as a member of the township board and in 1911 he was elected to represent liis
district in the state legislature, whore he made a creditable record. He has always been
loyal to the best interests of his community and the state and though born across the water,
he is thoroughly American in thought, spirit and interests.
LOUIS HENRY KERMOTT, M. D.
Dr. Louis Henry Kermott, a popular and successful physician of Minot, Avas born in
Bowmanvillp. Ontario, Canada, on the 5th of June, 1870, the youngest of the seven children
born to Charles and Hannah (Dixon) Kermott, natives of Manchester, England, and London,
Ontario, Canada, respectively. The father received his education at the Toronto Medical
Collcce and practiced as a physician nnd surgeon in Ontario until ISSO, when he removed
■with his family to the United States, settling at St. Thomas, North Dakota. There he con-
tinued his proii'.-^sional labors for about ten years, after which he practiced in La Moure,
North Dakota, for five years. He then entered the government service at Fort Totten and
remained there until his demise in 1001. He was a good citizen, shirking none of his duties
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 103
to his city, state or nation, but he nevev desired to hold office. His widow divides her time
between Minot and Palacios, Texas, where a daughter resides.
Dr. Louis Henry Kermott attended Hamline University at St. Paul, Minnesota, and
after taking a literary course entered the medical school of that university, from which he
was graduated with the class of 1904. Before this, however, he had begun his independent
career for in 1901 he found employment in a drug store, where he began the study of
medicine. After his graduation he served for a year as interne at St. Barnabas Hospital in
Minneapolis, after which lie practiced for six months in Towner, North Dakota. At the
expu'ation of that period he removed to Minot, where he has since engaged in general prac-
tice. His office is thoroughly and modernly equipped and in his work he keeps abreast of
the latest improvements in the practice of medicine and surgery. He is now serving as
surgeon for the Great Northern Railroad Company and holds the confidence of the general
public and of his professional brethren alike.
Dr. Kermott was married on the 12th of September, 1904, to Miss Louise Feagles, a
native of Knoxville, Tennessee, and a daughter of Robert and Mary (Allen) Feagles, both
of whom were born in Orange, New Jersey. The father, who was a Presbyterian minister,
removed with his family to Minneapolis and subsequentlj' went to Seattle, Washington.
He passed away in 1912 but his widow is still living in the last named city. Dr. and Mrs.
Kermott have a son, Louis Henry, .Jr., whose birth occurred April 19, 1908.
Dr. Kermott is a republican in his political belief but has never been very active in
public affairs. His religious affiliation is with the Baptist church and in all relations of life
he strives to conform to high standards of morals. He is connected with a number of fra-
ternal organizations, belonging to the Modern Woodmen of America, the Elks and the Masonic
order, in which he holds membership in the blue lodge and the bodies of the Scottish Rite
at Minot and in Kem Temple of the Mystic Shrine at Grand Forks. Along professional lines
he is connected with the Northwestern District Medical Society, of whicli he is president,
and the American Medical Association. Since removing to Minot he has gained the friend-
ship of many and holds the respect and goodwill of all who have been brought in contact
with him.
JOHN CARMODY.
John Carmody, an ex-member of the supreme court of North Dakota and for thirty
years a prominent representative of the bar of Hillsboro, has carved his name high on the
kej'stone of the legal arch of the state, being prominently connected with a profession
which has important bearing upon the progress and stable prosperity of any section or
community and one which has long been considered as conserving the public welfare by
furthering the ends of justice and maintaining individual rights. A native of Wisconsin,
he was born at Granville, Milwaukee county, January 6, 1854, a son of John and Mary
(Purcell) Carmody, natives of Ireland, who came to the new world with their respective
parents, the two families being established in Wisconsin. Mr. and Mrs. Carmody removed
to Waseca county, Minnesota, in 1868, and upon the farm which the father secured in that
year he is still living at the remarkable old age of ninety-six years.
Judge Carmody spent his youthful days under the parental roof and supplemented his
district school training by a term's study in the high school. He afterward engaged in
teaching for twelve terms in the country schools and utilized the summer months in farm
work, spending seven summer seasons in the employ of one man. It was his purpose and
desire, however, to turn his attention to a professional career and in 1878 he took up the
study of law in the office of Hon. James E. Child, of Waseca, Minnesota, who directed his
reading until his admission to the bar in 1880. He then entered upon the practice of his
profession in Waseca, where he remained until 1885. In the summer of 1884 he visited Dakota
territory in search of a location and the following year removed to Hillsboro, where he has
now been engaged in the active practice of law for three decades. In 1909 he was elevated
to the bench, being appointed by Governor Burke a member of the state supreme court,
in which connection he served for two years. He had previously been city justice of the
104 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
peace and municipal judge of Waseca, Minnesota, and in Hillsboro has filled the offices of
city attorney and mayor. He has likewise been states attorney of Traill count}', has been
a member of the state board of control of penal and charitable institutions, has been assist-
ant attorney general and at the present writing is tilling the office of assistant United States
district attorney. His public service has been of the utmost benefit and value to the state,
as in all his duties he has been actuated by a public-spirited rlf;votion to the general good.
On the 12th of July, 1886, Mr. Carmody was united in marriage to Miss Anna JIadden,
of Waseca, Minnesota, by whom he has three children, namely: Winifred Mary, a Dominican
Sister located at Sinsinawa, Wisconsin; Irene Frances, the wife of J. G. McClintock, of
Rugby, North Dakota; and George Christie, who is a teacher in the College of St. Thomas
at St. Paul, is pursuing the night law course and reports the St. Thomas athletics for the
Pioneer Press. He also played on tlie St. Thomas football team for three years, during
which time the -team never lost a game in which he participated.
Judge Carmod}' and his family are all members of the Catholic church and tlie .ludge
belongs to Grand Forks Lodge, No. 255, B. P. O. E. He is likewise a member of the Knights
of Columbus, of which he served as state advocate for three years, and of the Ancient Order of
United Workmen, of which he has been grand master workman for the state and a member of
the board of directors for eleven years. He also has membership with the Degree of Honor, the
Independent Order of Foresters and the American Yeomen. He has been the president and
the vice president of the Volunteer Firemen's Association and he has served as president of
the State Bar Association. He ranks with the distinguished and eminent jnembcrs of the
North Dakota bar, his ability bringing him prominently to the front in the trial of important
cases before the courts. His interests and activities are many and have been of a far-
reaching and beneficial character, but most of all he is known in his profession and is regarded
as a distinguished and able lawyer by his colleagues and contemporaries.
PROFESSOR GUY ELROY BEMIS.
Professor Guy Elroy Bemis, of Jlinot, prominent in educational circles, was born at
Roscoe Center, Minnesota, July 16, ISSO, a son of George W. and Lois Arabella (Waldo)
Bemis. The latter was a representative of one of the old pioneer families of Minnesota, her
father having built the first frame house in Dodge county. She was born in New Hampsliire,
while George W. Bemis was a native of Ohio. In early life he became a farmer in Minnesota
and also engaged in teaching. Subsequently he took up the profession of dentistry and is
now practicing in Thompson, Montana. His wife passed away about 1900.
In their family of eight children Professor Guy E. Bemis was the fourth in order of
birth, lie attended country schools in Minnesota and also the Litclifield high school and
the Wisconsin Business College at Racine, Wisconsin, completing his course there with tlie
class of 1902. When but eleven years of age he began working for others, entering the
employ of Mr. Hackney, now an extensive landowner of North Dakota, for whom he herded
cattle. Since that time he has practically supported himself. He worked for others as
opportunity offered until he completed his education. He had no assistance from anyone
and ]irnvided the means which enabled him to meet liis expenses during liis school days.
Taking up the profession of teaching, he was connected with a business college at Watertown,
Wisconsin, for a year, after which lie was transferred to Fond du Lac, wlicre he had charge
of a school from August, 1904, until July, 1906. At the latter date lie went to Bismarck,
establisliing the Bismarck Business College, which he conducted until September 18, 1911,
wlien he sold out and came to Minot. Here he purchased the equipment of a school which
had been closed and using its furniture, he was in a short time conducting a successful
school, which has since been continuously growing. The equipment today is very complete,
including adding machines, letter presses, typewriters and everything necessary for tlie
conduct of such a school and the enrollment today is about one hundred students annnally.
He devotes his entire time to the college and the methods of instruction arc most thorough,
well qualifying the pupils for onerous and responsible duties. He arrived in Minot on Sat-
PROFESSOR GUY E. BEMIS
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 107
urday, opened his school on Monday and throughout the intervening period has been regarded
as an important acquisition to the educational interests of the city.
On the 12th of October, 1915, Professor Bemis was married to Miss Florence Mae
Wilson, a native of Minot and a daughter of George and Clara (Corbett) Wilson, now residing
at Stanley. Professor and Mrs. Bemis attend the Presbyterian church and in politics he
is an independent republican, voting as his judgment dictates, yet supporting the principles
of the republican party. Fraternally he is connected with the Elks lodge at Minot and has
many friends both within and without that organization. He certainly is deserving of
much credit for what he has accomplished. There are few boys who start out in life for
themselves at the age of eleven years who manifest such determination and ambition in
securing an education. He realized how valuable this is as a foundation for later success
and in his thorough training he found the basis of his own life work. He has made the
school a credit to the city in whicli it is located and it draws to Minot many students from
elsewhere.
OLE HJ5RBRANS0N.
Ole Herbranson, the period of whose residence in Cass county, North Dakota, covers
forty-three years, is well known as a successful and enterprising agriculturist, owning an
excellent farm of two hundred and forty acres on section 14, Normanna township. His
birtli occurred in Houston county, Minnesota, on the 28th of October, 1859, his parents
being Ole and Carrie (Vinnord) Herbranson, who emigrated to the United States some time
in tlie '50s and located in Minnesota, where they were married. In 1872 they came to Cass
county, North Dakota, and took up their abode on the farm which is now in possession of
our subject, the father purchasing one hundred and sixty acres of land from a half breed for
one hundred dollars. This he cultivated successfully during the remainder of his active busi-
ness career as well as an adjoining tract of eighty acres which he purchased. He passed
away in 1914, at the age of ninety-five years, and the community mourned the loss of one of
its honored pioneer agi-iculturists and esteemed citizens.
Ole Herbranson, who eame to this state with his parents, in boyhood acquired his
education in the district schools and after attaining his majority continued to work with
his father on the home farm, gradually assuming its management. About 1900 he bought
the home place of two hundred and forty acres in Normanna township and it is now a well
improved and productive property, in the operation of which he has won a gratifying annual
income.
In 1885 Mr. Herbranson was united in marriage to Miss Gunild Hoflfen, a native of
Norwaj', by whom he has five children, as follows: Caroline, who is the wife of Pete Reisley,
of Kindred, North Dakota; Olava and Ole, both at home; Mathilda, who gave her hand in
marriage to Hilmer Bratwold, of Kindred; and Gilbert, at home.
Politically Mr. Herbranson is a stanch republican, while his religious faith is indicated
by his membership in the Norwegian Lutheran church, to which his wife and children also
belong. In matters of citizenship his influence and support are given on the side of advance-
ment and progress and he holds to high standards in man's personal relations witli his
fellowmen.
HELMER M. HABBERSTAD.
Helmer H. Habberstad, wlio is devoting his time and energies to general farming on
section 11, Normanna township, Cass county, was born November 20, 1875, on the farm
where he now makes his home and has therefore for forty years been a witness of the
growth and development of this section of the state. His parents were Martin and Mary
(Tostorud) Habberstad, both of whom were natives of Norway. It was in the year 1869
that the father came to the United States and in 1871 his wife crossed the Atlantic. They
108 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
became residents of Houston county, Minnesotii. wlieie they were married and establislied
tlieir liomc, residing there until 1875. The year previous the father came to Cass county,
North Ualvota, looking for a favorable homestead site auu' selected the farm upon which his
son now resides. The following yeai he took up his abode upon tlie pro|)erty. purchasing
railroad land. As the years passed on he carefully tilled the soil and developeil liis crops
and as his financial resources increased he added to his holdings until he became the owner
of five hundred and ten acres of the best land of this part of the state. He still lives on the
old homestead with his son and is one of the highly respected pioneer residents of North
Dakota.
Helmcr JI. Habberstad spent his youtlil\iI days umler the parental roof, having tlie
usual experiences that fall to the lot of the farm lad. The public schools alVordcd him his
educational opportunities and later he had the advantage of a course in the Decorah Insti-
tute at Decorah, Iowa, and at Vahlers lousiness College, also of Decorah. He then returiu>d
home to resume the work of the farm and in 190G acquired title to the property, purchas-
ing his father's interest in the old homestead. He is therefore now the owner of valuable
holdings, having one of the fine farms of Cass county, highly cultivated and splendidly
improved. In addition to devoting his attention to the further development of his farm he
is connected with the Farmers Klevator Company of Kindred as a stockholder and is also a
stockholder of the Ecpiity Exchange of St. Pa\il.
In JIarch, 1902, Mr. Habberstad was united in marriage to Miss Emma Stenbjem. of
Spring Grove, Minnesota. Mr. Habberstad gives his political endorsement to the repub-
lican party, feeling that its principles contain the best elements of good government. He
was elected a member of the board of supervisors and in 1901 was appointed to the position
of engrossing and enrolling clerk in the state legislature. He belongs to the Norwegian
Lutheran church and guides his life according to its teachings. Those who know him class
him with the representative farmers of Cass county. Among his many acquaintances he
is very popular, being esteemed highly for his sterling worth and his many admirable traits
of character.
JOSEPH T. NE\\TX)VE, M. D.
Dr. Joseph T. Newlove, who is practicing his profession in Minot, was born in Macville,
Ontario, Canada, December 16, 1867, and is the son of James H. and Hannah (Whitlam)
Newlove. Both parents were born in Canada, of English descent, and the father's natal day
was July 14, 1836, while the mother was born some years later. She died in 1875, but Mr.
Newlove is still engaged in farming in Ontario.
Joseph T. Newlove was a student in the Detroit College of Medicine and Surgery, of
Detroit. ^Michigan, from which he was graduated with the class of 1896. After completing
his medical course he removed to Towner, North Dakota, and practiced there until 1902,
since which time he has resided in Minot. He soon demonstrated his cajiability and has
built up a large and profitable practice. Although he devotes almost his entire time to his
professional work he is connected with business circles as a stockholder and director of the
Pioneer Life Insurance Company.
Dr. Newlove was married .January 25, 1899, to Miss Hattie C. Frisby, who was born
near Morris, Jlinnesota, and is a daughter of Philip and Salina (Stutts) Frisby, natives of
Pennsylvania, who settled in Minnesota in jiionecr times. They experienced Indian raids and,
in fact, all the dangers and hardships of frontier life. About 1888 they located at Towner,
North Dakota, where the father engaged in ranching for a number of years. He is now
deceased, but his wife survives and is living in Washington. Dr. and Mrs. Newlove have
had two children: Beulah E., who was born on the 13th of October, 1901, and who died
March 6, 1914; and James Philip, born December 7, 1906.
Dr. Newlove is a republican and has held numerous local offices of tnist. He holds
mcmber.ship in the Masonic blue lodge at Minot, has taken the degrees of both the York and
Scottish Bites and belongs to the Mystic Shrine at Fargo. Along strictly professional lines
he is identified with the Northwestern District Medical Society, the North Dakota State
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 109
Medical Society and is a fellow of the American Medical Association. He finds these organi-
zations of great value as they enable him to keep in touch with the work of other pro-
gressive physicians. In the business and social relations he has won the respect which
genuine merit always commands.
NELS OLSON.
Nels Olson, a well known and enterprising farmer of Reedj township, Cass county,
owns and cultivates two hundred and sixty-eight acres of rich and productive land. His
farm, in its well kept appearance, presents a marked contrast to its condition in early days
when he lived in a log cabin with a sod roof and had comparatively few of the comforts of
life. He was born in Sweden, May 7, 1845, a son of Ole and Elnora Olson, who were natives
of that country, where they spent their entire lives, rearing their family of six children there.
Nels Olson is the only one of the family now living. His education was acquired in
the schools of his native country and he was a young man of twenty-five years when, in
1870, he sailed for the new world, making his way to Minnesota, where he spent the first
winter. In the spring of 1871 he arrived in Cass county, North Dakota, and took up his
abode upon his farm on section 8, Reed township, where he has now remained for forty-
five years. Not a furrow had been turned nor an improvement made when the tract came
into his possession, but with characteristic energy iie began to develop it and in course of
time once wild prairie was bringing forth good crops. He built a log cabin which he covered
with a sod roof and occupied that home for some years, after which it was replaced by a
more commodious and modern dwelling. He now owns two hundred and sixteen acres of
arable land, which he has improved with good buildings, and his farm has been converted
into very desirable property.
In Sweden in 1869 Mr. Olson was married to Miss Hannah Sanberg, a native of that
coimtry, and they became the parents of seven children: Anna, the wife of August Nolin;
Edward, at home; Samuel; Albert; Selma, the wife of Peter Westling. of Moorhead. Min-
nesota; and two who have passed away. The wife and mother died in 1908 and many
friends as well as her immediate family were left to mourn her loss. She was a consistent
member of the Lutheran church, to which Mr. Olson also belongs.
His political support is given to the republican party and, while he has never sought
public office, he has served for several years as a member of the school board. His has been
an active and well spent life, bringing to him a substantial measure of success so that he
has been able to provide a comfortable home for his family and lay up a tidy sum for the
proverbial rainy day. He has never had occasion to regret his determination to come to the
new world, for he found here the opportunities wliich he sought and in their utilization has
gained a place among the well-to-do citizens of Cass county.
WILLIAM C. FORMAN, JR.
William C. Forman, Jr., of Hankinson, Richland county, is well known in his section
of the state as the editor of the Hankinson News. A native of Michigan, he was born in
Lake county on the 2d of August, 1875, and is a son of William C. and Debbie H. (Hurly)
Forman. The paternal grandfather, James Forman, was born in Canada, whither the family
had removed from the United States. They were Tories during the Revolutionary war. The
maternal grandfather was born in Ireland, where he passed away, but his widow removed
with her children to Canada. The father of our subject was born in Ontario in 1839, and
the mother was born in Ireland in 1847. They were married in St. Joseph, Michigan, whence
they came to North Dakota in 1884, settling in Sargent county. The town of Forman was
named for a brother of William C. Forman, Sr., and the latter still lives there. For a
number of years he resided on his farm which he homesteaded. He is a carpenter by trade
and followed that occupation in Michigan. Many years ago he made the long trip to Call-
110 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
loriiia by way of the Isthmus of Panama and tells many interesting stories of his experi-
ences on that occasion. For about twelve years he was in the employ of the Union Pacifio
Railroad. He is a stalwart democrat in politics and served efl"ciently as postmaster of For-
man during President Cleveland's second administration. He is now (illing the ollice of
deputy clerk of the courts. The mother of our subject died in 1903 in the faith of the
Episcopal church, lier demise being deeply regretted by her many friends. She was the
mother of two children, a son and a daughter, the sister of our subject being Mrs. R. B. Lowry,
a resident of Baker, Montana.
William C. Fornian, Jr., received his education in the common schools and when but
eight years of age began work in a printing office, so that during practically his entire life
he has been connected with the printing business. For four years, however, he was employed
in a bank. In 1899 he arrived in Hankinson, Richland county, and purchased the Ilankin-
son News, which he has successfully conducted during the intervening sixteen years. The
paper has a circulation of twelve hundred and is well jMtronized as an advertising medium.
He also does a good job printing business, as he has an up-to-date plant and is straightfor-
ward in his business methods. He understands all phases of the printing business and is
recognized as an efliciciit and progressive newspaper man. In April, 1912, he was appointed
postmaster of Hankinson and discharged the duties of his office with accuracy and in a
systematic manner, serving until 191G, when he was succeeded by F. 0. Hunger.
On the 11th of August, 1897, occurred the marriage of Mr. Forman and Miss Carrie J.
Tisdel, who was born in northern Iowa and by whom he has three sons: William C, George
H. and JIarshall L. Mrs. Forman is a devout communicant of the Lutheran church and the
high principles which govern the conduct of Mr. Forman are indicated by the fact that he
liolds membership in the Jlasonic blue lodge and chapter. He has served as worshipful
master of his lodge. In politics he is a republican and no matter of public concern fails
to secure his careful attention. He has become widely known and has made his paper a
factor in community advancement.
HARBO SORENSOX.
Ilarbo Sorenson is a farmer living on section 2, Normanna township, where he oper-
ates five lumdred and sixty acres of rich and productive land belonging to his wife and her
family. He also owns personally three hundred and twenty acres of land on section 27,
Warren township, and he is accounted one of the representative agriculturists of this part
of the state. Like the majority of the substantial and worthy citizens of Cass county, he
is of Norwegian birth, his natal day being September 23, 1859. His father, Soren Halverson,
followed his sons to the United States about the year 1893 and is now making his home
with a son in Lake county. Minnesota.
Harbo Sorenson spent the days of his boyhood and youth in the land of the midnight
sun and was a young man of twenty-two years when in 1881 he bade adieu to friends and
native land and sailed for the United States. He at once made his w^ay to North Dakota
and took >ip his abode on section 27, Warren township. Cass county, where he purcliased
railroad land, becoming owner of a tract of one hundred and sixty acres. Later he extended
the boundaries of his property by the purchase of an additional quarter section, so that he
now owns three hundred and twenty acres constituting one of the excellent farms of the
community. However, he is residing upon a farm of five hundred and six-ty acres owned
by his wife and her family and is busily engaged in its operation, further development and
improvement. He is one of the extensive farmers of his township and is a most progressive,
active and enterprising business man. He carefully studies the needs and conditions of the
soil and plants his crops accordingly, rotating them from season to season in order to keep
the soil in excellent condition. His labors are attended with a gratifying measure of suc-
cess and he is classed with the prosperous and representative agriculturists of the district.
He is also a stockholder in the Farmers Elevator Company of Warren.
In 1884 Mr. Sorenson was united in marriage to Miss Olea Tuskind, a native of Nor-
way. She, however, came with her parents to the United States in 1871. To Mr. and Mrs.
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 111
Sorenson have been born four children: Albert, who operates the home farm; Henry, who
operates his father's threshing machine; Olga; and Clarence. The family are all members
of the Norwegian Lutheran church and in his political views Mr. Sorenson is a republican,
giving stanch and stalwart support to the party, for he believes that its platform contains
the best elements of good government. He served for several years as a member of the
board of townsliip trustees and has ever been actively interested in plans and projects for
the benefit and improvement of township and county. He is a member of the school board
and the cause of education finds in Iiim a stalwart champion. A self-made man, he deserves
much credit for what he has accomplished. He came to the country a poor boy without cap-
ital but possessed energy and determination and upon those substantial qualities has
builded his success, his life record demonstrating what may be accomplished when energy
and ambition point out the way. Moreover, his life record is an indication that success and
an honored name may be won simultaneously, notwithstanding the fact that many feel that
business and honorable jjrinciples are not harmonious elements. ,
JOHN E. PENCE, M. D.
Among the progressive and efficient physicians and surgeons of Jlinot is Dr. John K.
Pence, who was born at Baldwin, Iowa, on the 26th of October, 1884, the fifth in order of
birth of a family of seven children. His parents, William T. and Mary A. (Campbell)
Pence, are both natives of Ibwa and their natal years were 1845 and 1849 respectively.
They now live in Maquoketa, Iowa.
John R. Pence attended the high school at Maquoketa and subsequentl}' was for two
years a student in the University of Iowa and spent a similar period in Northwestern
University, which conferred upon him the M. D. degree in 1909. In June immediately fol-
lowing his graduation he came to Minot and during the intervening seven years he has
engaged in the general practice of rnedicine and surgery. In making a diagnosis he is
careful to take into account every condition affecting the case, gives his patients the best of
care and in his treatment utilizes the latest discoveries in the field of medicine and surgery.
He has been accorded an excellent patronage and has gained a high standing in his profession.
Dr. Pence was united in marriage on the 22d of April. 1914, to Miss Florence Stenersen,
a native of Minnesota and a daughter of John H. and Abbie (Person) Stenersen. The
father, who is of Norwegian birth, is now engaged in the lumber business in Port Arthur,
Canada. His wife is also still living. Dr. and Mrs. Pence have a daughter, Mary, whose
birth occurred on the 17th of March, 1915.
The Doctor is a republican and is now serving his fifth year as city health officer, in
which capacity he has done work of great value to the city. He is a member of Star in
the West Lodge, No. 33, A. F. & A. M., of Minot; of Minot Lodge, No. 6, K. P.; and Minot
Lodge, No. 1089, B. P. 0. E., of which ho is now serving as exalted ruler. Through his
membership in the Northwestern District Medical Society and the North Dakota State
Medical Society and through wide reading along professional lines he keeps informed as to
the latest discoveries in his profession and this progressive spirit is one of the factors in
his success as a phvsician.
WILLIAJI DOMIER.
The business interests of Clifford find a worthy representative in William Domier,
who is a dealer in agricultural implements and has various other active connections with
business affairs. In fact his interests are so broad in their scope and important in their
nature as to furtlier in large measure the material development of the community. Mr.
Domier was born in Norway, .January 23, 1859, a son of Henry and Carrie (Running)
Domier. who came to the United States in 1866 and settled in Goodhue county, Minnesota,
where they spent fifteen years. In 1881 they arrived in North Dakota, taking up their
112 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
abode in Rosoville towiishii>, Traill county, wliere Mr. Domier secured a homestead claim on
whicli he resided until his death in 1902. His widow survived him for seven ytars, passing
away in 1909. »
William Domier pursued his education in the district schools of Minnesota, being but
a lad of seven years when the family crossed the Atlantic. At a very early age, liowcver,
he became a wage earner, working as cliore boy for neighboring farmers and doing general
farm work as early as his nintli or tentli year. He is truly a self-made man, for from that
time forward he has depended solely upon his own resources. In 1882 he began farming
on his own account, homesteading one hundred and sixty acres on section 20, Roseville
township. Traill county. There lie resided for three years, after which he sold that prop-
erty and went to Nelson county, where he purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land,
there carrying on general farming for eleven years. He next took up his abode in Steele
county, where he purchased one hundred and sixty acres and for nine years he resided in
that coiyity, carrying on general agricultural piusuits. In 1905 he removed to ClilTord to
become manager for the Goose River Implement Company, in which connection he has since
continued. He still owns his farm in Steele county, located eight miles west of Clifford.
He is regarded as one of the substantial residents of the town in which he resides, for
aside from his farming and mercantile interests he is a stockliolder in the Farmers Elevator
Company and in the Traill County Telephone Company. His business connections are of
an important character and have won him place among the representative and valued
residents of this part of the state.
In 1881 Mr. Domier was married to Jliss Josephine Quelle, a native of Norway, who
died November 29, 1911. Mr. Domier is a member of the Norwegian Lutheran church. His
political allegiance has always been given to the republican party since age brought him
the right of franchise. He has served as a member of the town board and for many years
he was chairman of the board, while living in Steele county. He takes a deep and helpful
interest in community affairs, casting his influence always on the side of progress and
improvement and his clforts in behalf of public welfare have been productive of" excellent
results.
OLK K. l-LSAKER.
The real estate dealers of any coniunniity arc factors of no small importance in its
upbuilding as they are instrumental in bringing in new residents and in securing improve-
ments. Ole K. Ulsaker, who is the oldest real estate dealer in Wahpeton in point of years
of connection with the business, has aided in many ways in the development of the city
and has also gained financial independence. He was born in Norway on the 1st of December,
1850, a son of Knute K. and Margaret (Finseth) Ulsaker, likewise natives of that country,'
the former born in 1806 and the latter in 1811. The father was a son of Ingvald Ulsaker]
a lifelong resident of the Land of the Jlidnight Sun. and he also passed his entire life there.'
He died in 1876 and was survived for a number of years by his wife, who died in .January,
1901. Both were members of the Lutheran church, the teachings of which guided their
lives. To them were born eight children, four of whom are still living, namely: Knute K.,
a farmer of Richland county, Ole K.; Thrond K.. a fruit farmer in California; aiTd Swen, a
mini.ster of the Lutlicran church in Wahpeton.
Ole K. Ulsaker attended the public schools of Norway and after emigrating to this
country continued his education in St. Olaf College at Northfleld, Minnesota. Subsequently
he attended Luther College at Decorah, Iowa, whence he came to North Dakota, settling
first at Kindred. After remaining there for three years he took up his residence in Walipe"-
ton in 1881, having been elected county treasurer in fall of 1880, which office he held for
ten }-ears, or five terms, his efficiency leading to his continued reelection. In 1891 he turned
his attention to the real estate business, in which he has since engaged. He buys and sells
land outright, and as he is always well informed as to what is on the market and is an
excellent judge of realty values his transactions have been very profitable and he is now a
man of independent means. He owns five excellent farms, all of which are well improved
. HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 113
and from which he derives a gratifying addition to his income. He is likewise a director
and vice president of the National Bank of Wahpeton and also owns considerable city
property.
In 1885 Mr. TJlsaker was united in marriage to Miss Cecil Huss, a native of Nicollet
county, Minnesota, by whom he has five children: Oscar, who is engaged in the practice of
law at Moore, Montana; Althea, the wife of Oscar Erickson, superintendent of schools at
Hatton, this state; Carl, a graduate of the high school and of the State School of Science
and first lieutenant of Company I, North Dakota National Guard, now stationed at Mercedes,
Texas; Walter, who is attending high school; and Lawrence, who is ten years of age.
Mr. Ulsaker is a republican in politics but has never been able to spare the time to
take an active part in public afl:airs although he is not remiss in any of the duties of a
good citizen. His religious faith is that of the Lutheran church, to which he belongs and
the influence of which he seeks to extend. The success which he has gained is due solely
to his own energy and ability as he began his career as a poor boy.
GEORGE W. BOWEN.
George W. Bowen, agent for the Soo line at Valley City, was born in St. Thomas,
Ontario, Canada, April 5, 1866, a son of Henry and Nancy (Bolton) Bowen, who were also
natives of Ontario. The father always made his home at St. Thomas, where he was engaged
in milling.
After his school days were over George W. Bowen took up the study of telegraphy and
became an operator on the Canadian Pacific Railroad, while later he was employed by the
Michigan Central Railway Compan}', and in 1888 he joined the forces of the Northern Pacific,
being stationed along the Missouri division. He so continued until 1889, when he became a
representative of the Chicago, St. Paul, Minneapolis & Omaha Railroad at St. Paul and was
in the general offices at St. Paul until May, 1893, when he joined the Soo line and was sent
to Valley City, since which time he has been agent at that point.
On the 4tli of August, 1890, Mr. Bowen was united in marriage to Miss Margaret Deuer,
a native of Illinois, and they have become the parents of eight children: Lawrence D., who
after leaving high school became a member of the firm of Bowen & Hollingshead at Valley
City; William H., who is engaged in clerking in Valley City; Grace, at home; and Fred,
Arthur, Florence, Marjorie and Margaret, all in school.
Mr. Bowen is identified with the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks and the Knights
of Pj'thias and is loyal to the teachings of both organizations. He is regarded as an efficient
agent by the road which he represents, as a substantial and upright citizen by his fellow
townsmen and In business he has won success, making judicious investments in land, his
holdings in Colorado farm lands amounting to six hundred and forty acres.
JACOB L. SKRR^^ETH.
Jacob L. Skrivseth, who has been connected with the photographer's art and business
for thirty-nine years, owns and conducts a studio in Minot and receives an excellent patronage
from the city and surrounding territory. His birth occurred in the district of Nordmore
on the west coast of Norway on the 26th of December, 1853. His parents, Lars and Mollie
(Aasprong) Skrivseth, were also* born in Norway and came with their family to the new
world in 1869. After farming for some time in Freeborn county, Minnesota, they removed
to Traill county, North Dakota, whence they went to Crookston, Minnesota, where they
passed away, both being buried in the Crookston cemetery.
Jacob L. Skrivseth, who is the third in order of birth in a family of seven children,
attended the public schools of Norway and after the family home was established in
Minnesota continued his education there. He was seventeen years of age when he began
working for others, finding employment in a store and later in a hotel. In early manhood
114 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
he took up photography at Albert Lea, Minnesota, and after learning the business went to
Faribault, J[innesota, wiionce he removed to Fargo, North Dakota, in the latter '80s, opening
the first studio in that place thirty-seven years ago. 'He remained there until he located
in Moorhead, Minnesota, as a partner of O. E. Flaten, and on leaving that place he removed
to Traill county, this state, where he liad farming interests, and also engaged in business
in Hillsboro, that county. He was later successively in Mayville and in Crookston, Minnesota,
but in 1905 became a resident of Minot, North Dakota. He has since resided there, save for
a short period spent on the Pacific coast, and during the greater part of the time has followed
his profession as a photographer. In the year of the Alaska- Yukon-Pacific Exposition he went
to Seattle and for a little while engaged in business there, but the greater part of the time
devoted his attention solely to sight seeing. He then returned to Minot and opened a studio
over the First National Eank. He now has a large and profitable patronage not only from
.Minot but also from the surrounding country. He does all kinds of photographic work and
holds to a high standard of artistic excellence. He is also a good business man and as the
years have passed he has prospered financially. For a number of years he owned the
"skrivseth block, which he erected but which he sold when he went to Seattle, and he has
also disposed of his stock in the Union National Bank. He is now interested Hn farming
in Montana.
Mr. Skrivseth was married ISSO to Miss Bertha Christenson, who was born near
Nordfjord, Bergen, Norway, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Knute Christenson. Her father died
in Minnesota, but her mother passed away in Norway. Mr. and Mrs. Skrivseth have three
children: Henning D., of ilinot, who is assisting his father and who married Miss Nellie Best;
Margaret, the wife of 0. C. Anderson, of Fargo, who is engaged in the monument business
with an uncle; and Jay B. L., who is still at home and who is in the employ of the Great
Northern Railway Company.
Mr. Skrivseth is a progressive in politics and in the 1912 campaign served as chairman
of the county central committee. In the early days of the organization of Traill county he
served as town clerk in what is now Void, but was then a part of Norway, later Logan
township. He was elected to the ofiices of alderman and mayor of Hillsboro, this state, and
in all of his otlicial capacities he has performed his duties with regard solely to the welfare
of the public. Religiously he is a member of the Free Lutheran church and fraternally he is
a member of the Knights of Pythias of Minot, in which he has passed through all the chairs
and which he has represented in the grand lodges of the states of North Dakota and Minnesota.
He was also a grand officer of the Minnesota Knights of Pythias. He is likewise a member
and an ex-president of the Sons of Norway and is a stockholder in the fraternal homes of
the orders. He has devoted his entire life to one business and this concentration of his
energies has enabled him to become an expert in that line and to win an enviable and well
deserved success. Moreover, his personal characteristics are such that he has gained the
sincere respect and the warm goodwill of those who have been associated with him.
HALVOR ,1. IIAGEN.
Amon" the prominent, energetic and progressive business men of Fargo is Halvor J.
Hagen, president of the Seandiuavian-Ameriean Bank. He is honored and respected by all
not" alone by reason of the success which he has achieved, but also owing to the straight-
forward business policy which he has followed, and his efl'orts have ever been of a character
that has contributed to public prosperity as well as to. individual success. A native of
Norwav, he was born in Trondjhem on the 1st of September, 18G0, a son of Jens and Gunliild
Hagen,' who came to the United States in 1870, settling in Menomonie, Wisconsin. In 1873
they arrived in the Red River valley of North Dakota, establishing their home in Richland
county, near Fort Abercrombie, where the father secured a homestead, whereon he remained
until his death in October, 1913. For about five years he survived his wife, who passed away
in 1908. In (he meantime he had become one of the large landowners of Richland county,
making extensive investments in property, which advanced in value through the improve-
ments which he placed upon his land and also owing to the rapid settlement of the district.
HALVOR J. HAGEN
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 117
Halvor J. Hagen pursued his education at Willmar Seminary at Willmar, Minnesota, and
then turned liis attention to larming near Abererombie, being thus identified with agricul-
tural interests for a number of years. In 1802, however, he turned his attention to banking
becoming connected with the National Bank of Wahpeton, and with its officers he organized
the First State Bank of Abererombie, of wliicli lie became the president and financial manager.
In 1910 he organized the Scandinavian-American Bank of Fargo, of which he became the
president, and to this institution he has since given his personal attention, beinding his
energies to administrative direction and executive control. Under his guidance the bank has
made steady progress and is now recognized as one of the strong financial institutions of
the northwest. He is still a member of the board of directors of the First State Bank of
Abererombie and is also identified financially and officially with other banking institutions
of the state.
On the 4th of July, 1894, Mr. Hagen was married to Miss Amy Wood, of Sauk Center,
Minnesota, and they have become the parents of three children: Allen, who is employed in
the Scandian National Bank of Minneapolis; Horace; and Naomi.
The parents hold membership in tlie United Lutheran church and :Mr. Hagen is identified
with various social, fraternal and civic organizations. In fact, his interests are most varied
and indicate him to be a man of well rounded character, alive to the questions and conditions
of the day. He is an active, cooperant factor in the Fargo Commercial Club, being in hearty
sympathy with every movement to promote the welfare and upbuilding of the city. He
belongs to the United Lutheran church and is a member of the Young Men's Christian Associa-
tion, which indicates his activity in behalf of moral development. That he is interested in
the home of his ancestors and the welfare of liis fellow countrymen is manifest in his member-
ship in the Norse Society and the Scandinavian Working Men's Association. He is also presi-
dent of the Per Hjelm Hansen Memorial Society of Fargo and of the Sons of Norway. Mr.
Hagen is a thirty-second degree Scottish Eite Mason and a member of El Zagal Temple of
the Mystic Shrine. That he stands for those things which have marked cultural value is in-
dicated in his membership in the Scandinavian Fine Arts Society of Minneapolis. His interest
in the events which have formed the history of the state is manifest in the fact that he is a
member of the board of directors of the State Historical Society, is secretary of the Red
River Valley Old Settlers' Association and was one of tlie founders of the liistorical park
at Abererombie, of which he is the present custodian. When president of tlie Red River
Valley Old Settlers' Association, on the occasion of its twelfth annual meeting at Wahpeton,
he delivered a most interesting address, which is here given in part. He said: "It becomes
my pleasant duty to respond to this most generous welcome. We thank you most graciously.
And when I look over the program and see what good things are in store for us at this meet-
ing, the many good speeches that you will hear, the many happy reminiscences that will be
told, the sumptuous feast that will be spread — when I see those things, I am reminded of
tlie story of the young man «'ho had a bicycle for two, with his best girl on in front; he
said he apprecia ed the situation because he had something pleasant to look forward to. Wo
have something pleasant to look forward to here on this occasion. Our sojourn here shall
be pleasant — for this spot was the great gateway through which so many passed to enter
the promised land. I think I see them now in imagination — that great army, grim and deter-
mined men — westward bound — lialt on the brink of the Red River of the north — and I seem
to hear God whisper into their ears: 'Tliis land will I give you and your children.' And, I
am grateful, gentlemen of this association, from whom I have received so many courtesies,
for allowing me to crown my almost one-third of a century of pioneer life by giving me the
chief official position in j'our association. I am gratified that this honor has come to me at
Wahpeton — the spot where twenty-nine j'ears ago last month I crossed the ferry to help begin
the empire building of the Red River valley. I wish to acknowledge, at this time, on behalf
of the association, the liberality of the people of Richmond county, as expressed through their
county commissioners, and of the hospitable citizens of Wahpeton, as shown through the
honorable city council and by the complete preparations here in evidence for our entertain-
ment. I would also acknowledge the cordiality of our reception by the Wahpeton Board of
Trade, and the untiring labors in our behalf by Colonel John W. Woodhull, the efficient secre-
tary of that body. . . And now let me speak in brief of the Red River valley — this vast,
noble domain, every foot of which is made sacred by the toil of pioneer hands. We love its
Vol. n— 7
118 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
very soil; for it ise consecreatcd by the toil of that great army, so many of whom are now
laying down their burdens and cares and passing to niing'e their heroic dust with tlie soil, to
make it still more sacred. We have in this spot a spU'iidid inheritance. It is the last spot
God made in this part of the world; tlie swift-Mowing .-ilrianis at the close of the ice age and
the settling of Lake Agassiz left it a soil jialpitating with fertility — inexhaustible in pro
ductiveness. He .seems to have poured into this valley all the wealth of soil He had left
after fasliioning tlie remainder of the universe. And so it comes that we have great stores
of fertile soil, beautiful rivers, sunlit prairies, and woods wreathing bank and valley. Add
to this a glorious climate — sudden at times, perhaps, but bracing — befitting atmosphere for
the strenuous builders of an empire — and we have a new paradise framed by God as His last
and noblest achievement. Into this realm came the sifted population of the best countries
of Kurope — the stoutest and the bravest, the sturdiest and tlie fittest — for none but brave
and stanch will undertake to break the way for civilization. On they came, to wring from
savagery a civilization by founding liomcs and building cities. The inhospitable wilderness
was here in all its wild abandon. Here the black bear lumbered lazily in the forest fast-
nesses; here the wolf howled, the buffalo roamed. Here superstition worshipped and sac-
rificed its bloody victims upon the altar of its savage faith. Here tepee and trail told of the
restless, roaming instinct that beat in the wild breast. Upon this scene the sturdy German,
the passionate Irishman, the resolute Xorwegian, the practical Scot, the ingenious Saxon,
the patient Swede, the rugged Bohemian came, full of industry, full of devotion, full of
faith. All the quarter they ever asked for was a strong arm and a long day in which to
work. We have seen the result. We see it today — this valley made glorious with their
achievements, amply provided — a happy people in all its wide domain, beautiful homes,
noble churches, numberless school buildings, a place designated in the geographies of the
earth as the 'granary of the world.' And speaking of this state as the granary of the w'orld,
reminds us of the fact that there has been one plant that has been to the pioneer a friend
indeed — a plant the most royal in the world. It is a tyrant and causes us to lose niucih
sleep. It w^orks us to death half the year and makes us vagrants the other half. To adopt
from the oratory on cotton, one might say: What a royal plant it is. The world waits in
attendance on its growth. Empires and republics, kings and ])otcntates, rich and poor, black
and white, all bow before it. The showers that fall wdiispering on its tender leaves are
heard around the woild. The sun that shines upon it is tempered by the praj-ers of all
the people. The frost that chills it and the dews that descend from the stars are noted, and
the trespass of a little bug on its stem is more to England than the advance of the Bussian
army on her Asian outposts. It is gold from the instant it puts forth its tiny shoot. Its
kernel is current in every bank, and when heading out to meet the all-maturing sun. it
nods a head of gold that brings a smile of hope from the farmer. The farmer is thus
marshaled under a flag that commands the allegiance of the world, and can wring a subsidy
from every nation on earth. So, industry and a handful of wheat and a willing soil have
created a transformation that surpasses the flight of the imagination. Instead of the Indian
wigwam we have the palatial home; instead of the broncho and his trail, the iron horse
thunders across its track of steel; instead of the waving grass, the waving grain; where
the altar of superstition once stood, there now rises into view the dome of the church
and the schoolhouse. Industry smiles at the changes she has wrought, and the pioneers —
many crowned with the frosts of age — live to enjoy it in its hap|)y consummation. Thirty
years have passed, beginning with no government, no cultivated fields, no civilization — today
the greatest tract of territory in point of productiveness of any equal area on the face of
the earth. I say greatest because it produces more of the material absolutely necessary to
human existence than any other territory of equal area on all the earth; for its size, it pro-
duces more bread and material for better bread material than any other region in the world.
And, greater than all, it contains more citizens who work for themselves; who own the
lands they till, and who dwell beneath the shadows of their own rooftree; more citizens
who love God; who love their country and their tUig. than in all the rest of the worlds
The land is valuable; the assessed valuation has in these forty years passed from a few
dollars towards the hundred millions. Nor has tliis wealth been dug out of Klondike's
mines or the diamond fields of South Africa; nor has it been won in the gambling dens of
Wall street. Every dollar of it is a created wealth — wrung from the reluctant soil by the
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 119
brawny hand of toil. And there is not only productivity in her soil, but there is beauty in
her domain. The natural beauties of North Dakota, though not those of destruction and
desolation, exceed tlie far-famed grandeur of Italy. True, no Alps nor Appenines burst from
her broad bosom and rear their cold, dead peaks mile upon mile into heaven's mighty vault;
no Vesuvius belches angry flame at the stars; no Xiagara churns its green waters into a
rainbow-tinted foam, nor do we hear the savage roar of the avalanche. But here we have
sun-kissed prairies, the purple tints of the lotus eater's land; the pastoral beauties of Tempe's
delightful home; suns set and suns rise, whose gleaming gold might ransom a universe of
kings. This valley of ours is a noble heritage. And today it stands in its multitudinous
forms of industiy and civilization as an enduring monument to the forethought, enterprise
and devotion of those who founded and wrought. And as the dark locks whiten, as steps
totter, as eyes grow dimmed let it be to the satisfaction of the pioneer to know today and
the remaining days that the pioneer's battle has been a hard-fought one, but nobly won."
CHAELES H. MAKTIX, D. V. S.
Dr. Charles H. Martin, engaged in the practice of veterinary surgery at Valley City,
was born in Ottawa, Illinois, in December, 1869, a son of Phillip R. and Sarah (Berry)
Martin, both of whom were natives of England. The father, who was born in Devonshire,
died in 1912, when seventy years of age. The paternal grandfather came to America in the
late '50s and after a period spent in Michigan removed to Illinois, where he followed farming.
In 1879 Phillip R. Martin removed from Illinois to North Dakota, establishing his home near
Buffalo, Cass county, where he secured a homestead, preemption and tree claim. The re-
mainder of his active business life was spent upon this farm and when he retired he removed
to Powers Lake, where he continued to make his home until called to his final rest. He
took great interest in local affairs and was a worthy citizen of the community.
Of a family of five children Charles H. Martin was the eldest and after mastering the
branches of learning taught in the public schools he attended the commercial college at
Valparaiso, Indiana, and still later entered the Ontario (Canada) Veterinary College, from
which he was graduated with the class of 1894. He then located for practice at Buffalo, Cass
county, North Dakota, where he remained until 1903, when he came to Valley City, where
he has since continued and in the intervening years he has won a good practice.
In 1896 Dr. Martin was united in marriage to Miss Harriet S. Richie, a daughter of
W. T. Richie, who came to this state in 1879. Mrs. Martin was bom at Mapleton, North
Dakota, and passed away at Valley City, in July, 1914, leaving seven children: Zella, at
home; Douglas, Phillip and Howard, all in school; Dorothy; Madge; and Mary.
Fraternally Dr. Martin is connected with the Kniglits of Pythias and with the Loyal
Order of Moose and along professional lines his membership is in the North Dakota Veterinary
Association, of which he served as secretary for several years. He has filled the office of
district veterinarian and assistant state veterinarian for a number of years and holds high
rank as one possessing marked skill in his chosen calling. For thirty-seven years Dr. Martin
has been a resident of this state, having remained in Illinois only until ten years of age,
and he has therefore been a witness of much of the growth and development of North Dakota.
At all times he has been interested in its progress and has borne his share in the work of
public improvement, giving loyal support at all times to those measures and movements
which he deems of practical value in promoting the best interests of the community.
J. S. JOHNSON.
J. S. .Tohnson, president of the Christine State Bank and a well known dealer in lumber
and farm implements, has not only been connected with the business development of Christine
but has also been active in public affairs, having held a number of offices, including that of
state representative. He was born in Norway on the 6th of June, 1854, a son of Lara ant'
120 . HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
Carrie (Tliompsen) Johnson, botli likewise natives of that country, the former horn in 1824
and the latter in 1827. The mother passed away in hev native country in 1808 but in 1881
the father emigrated to the United States and purchased a farm in Jlinnesota. He was also
a landowner in Norway and cnirafjed in farmin<; throughout his entire active life. His demise
occurred in 1911, when he had reached tlie advanced age of 87 years. His political allegiance
was given to the republican party after becoming a naturalized citizen of the United .States
and his religious faith was that of the Lutheran church. To him and his wife were born
throe children: H. A., who is farming in Meeker county, Minnesota, and who is a machinist
by trade; J. S.; and Isabelle, the wife of John Holt, a farmer of Wilkins county, Minne-
sota, and chairman of the board of county commissioners. The paternal grandfather reached
the advanced age of one hundred and two years and passed his entire life in Norway, as
did the maternal grandfather, who was a farmer by occupation.
J. S. Johnson received his education in his native country and remained there for sev-
eral years after attaining his majority. In ISSO he crossed the Atlantic to the United
States and made his way to Minnesota, where he engaged in carpentering and farming for
three years, after which he removed to Christine, North Dakota. In 188S he took a commer-
cial course in the Curtiss Business College at Jlinncapolis. In 1886 he established a lumber
business, which he has since successfully conducted and to which he has added a line of
farm inii)lements. As the years have passed his trade has grown and he is now one of the
leading business men of Iris town. He also has other interests, being president of
the Christine State Bank, which he established in 1889 and which has the confidence of the
community as it has always been nuinaged in accordance with principles of sound finance.
He also owns considerable land in western North Dakota and he formerly had an interest
in the Christine Mercantile Company, which he recently sold.
In 1883 Mr. Johnson was united in marriage to Miss Anna Olson, a native of Norway,
who passed away three years after her marriage. In 1902 he was again married, Miss
Albertina R. Lukason, likewise a native of Norway, becoming his wife. Two children have
been born to this union, Agnes R. and James A.
Mr. Johnson is a republican and has considerable inlluence in political circles in his
part of the state. Since attaining his majority he has taken part in public affairs and has
served as town treasurer and as school treasurer and in 1896 and again in 1898 was honored
by election to the state legislature, proving a, public-spirited and able law maker. His
religious faith is indicated by the fact that he holds membership in the Lutheran church
and fraternally he is connected Avith the Masons and the Woodmen. He is one of the sub-
stantial men of his community and can always be depcndeil upon to aid in jironioting the
general welfare.
J. B. RADFORD.
J. B. Radford, one of the leading citizens and inosperous agriculturists of Cass county,
came to this state thirty-seven years ago and in the careful conduct of his agricultural
interests has won gratifying success, for he is now the owner of six hundred acres of rich
and productive land in Warren township, residing on section 34. His birth occurred in Fond
du Lac county. Wisconsin, on the 14tli of February, 1859, his parents being Joseph and
Frances (Taylor) Radford, both of whom were natives of iMigland. They were married in
Wisconsin and resided in that state during the remainder of their lives, passing away in
Fond du Lac. By trade the father was a nuison and plasterer.
J. B. Radford was reared under the pan^ntal roof and obtaini'd his education in the
graded and high schools of Fond du Lac. It was in June, 1878, when he was a young man
of nineteen years, that he came to North Dakota. He had learned the trade of mason under
his father and after his arrival here worked for one year in Fargo, assisting in the erection
of some of the first brick buildings in the town. In February, 1879, he took up his present
home farm as a preemption and subsequently changed this to a homestead. The same
year he acquired a tree claim on which he proved up and in later years he has purchaed two
other quarter sections, his landed holdings now embracing six hundred acres in Warren
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 121
township. He also owns a city residence in Faigo and during the past twenty-three or
twenty-four years has spent the winter seasons there.
In October, 1882, Mr. Radford was united in marriage to iliss Sarah Wold, of Cass
county, who is a native of Norway. To them liave been born four children, as follows:
Frances, who is deceased; Joseph T., who follows farming in partnership with his father;
Amy, who has passed away; and Grace U., at home.
Politically Mr. Radford is an independent republican and for the past twenty years has
served as county chairman of his party. He has also made an excellent record as a member
of the township board of trustees, having thus served for about twenty-five years, while
for four years he was a member of the board of trustees of the State Agricultural College
under Governor Burke. Fraternally he is identified with the Knights of Pythias. By his
enterprise and energy along political lines and by his scientific and modern methods of
agriculture Mr. Radford has earned the high esteem of his fellow citizens and the place in
the communitv to wliieli he is entitled has never been denied him.
JOHN E. hol:\i.
Modern scientific farming finds expression in the work of John K. Holm, who is today
the owner of three thousand acres of land in Barnes county and with the aid of his sons
is cultivating altogether forty-two hundred acres. His broad fields of grain look like a
great billowy sea. stretching on and on as far as the eye can reach, and in addition to con-
trolling and managing this great property he is also engaged in general merchandising at
Cuba. His birth occurred in Carver count}', Minnesota, October 12, 1857, a son of Jlr. and
Mrs. Andrew E. Holm, who were born, reared and married in Sweden. In 1855 they arrived
in Minnesota and cast in their lot with the pioneer settlers of Carver county at a period
when the Indians were all around them. At the time of the Sioux Indian war of 1862
Andrew E. Holm was one of the first drafted to fight the red men and walked to St. Paul,
a distance of forty miles, for equipment, but owing to rheumatism he was released and
returned home. He thereafter continued firming througliout his remaining days, passing
away at an advanced age. He met all of the hardships and privations of frontier life and
lived to enjoy the success and prosperity which changing conditions and his own industry
brought about. His family numbered two sons and two daughters.
The second in order of birth was John Holm, who spent his boj-hood in his native
county, having the usual experiences that fall to the farm bred lad. In 1879 he married
Annie Ranft, a native of Pennsylvania, and they have become parents of seven children:
John, now farming in Barnes county; George, Henry Albert and Powell Edward, all assist-
ing their father in his extensive farming operations; Anna, the wife of Henry Dill, living
near Minneapolis, Minnesota; Katie Matilda, at home; and Herman Fritz.
Following his marriage in 1879 Mr. Holm started out in business life on his own
account but did not meet with the success he had anticipated when in Minnesota. Accord-
ingly in 1885 he sought opportunities elsewhere and removed to Barnes county. North
Dakota, where he cultivated rented land for a number of years. He then returned to
Minnesota, intending to remain, but found that he had become imbued with a love of North
-Dakota and in 1891 returned. He here bought a quarter section of land on crop payments
and began farming, since which time he has added steadily to his holdings until he is now
the owner of about three thousand acres of land, which he and his sons are cultivating, and
in addition he rents twelve himdred acres, so that they are now engaged in farming alto-
gether forty-two hundred acres. The major part of the land is devoted to the growing of
small grain and he also raises alfalfa and timothy as feed for his stock, having upon his
place a herd of one hundred head of Red Polled cattle. He also bought out the general
merchandise store at Cuba, which had been conducted as a farmers' cooperative store, and
has since carried on a successful general mercantile business. He has his own threshing
outfit and all modern farm machinery, and there are few in the United States who are
carrying on agricultural pursuits on a more extensive scale. He is likewise serving as
122 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
postmaster at Cuba and is closely identified with evpjy interest of tlio iiniimiinity wliicli
lias to do with the general welfare.
Mr. Holm is justly regarded as a most sagacious and farsightcd business man, wide-
awake, alert and enterprising. His phenomenal success is due to his judicious selection in
buying farm lands and to his wise control and management of his farming operations.
Altlioiigli in his sixtieth year, in appearance and nuncmcnts he would be readily taken for
a man of forty. Industry, enterprise and good judgment have characterized him at every
point in his career. He possesses an optimistic nature and is not afraid to venture wljere
favoring opportunity points out the way. While he came to North Dakota without a
dollar and has had to suffer many hard knocks at the hand of fate, he has persevered and
has found that opportunity, which slips away from the sluggard and tauntingly jilays
before the dreamer, yields its rich rewards to the man of energy and determination.
KLIAS BOWMAN.
Klias Bowman is a representative of one of tlie pioneer families of Cass county. For
almost forty years he has been a witness of the growth and development of this part of tlie
state and has aided largely in promoting its progress, particularly along agricultural lines.
He is still busily engaged in farming and is accounted one of the wide-awake and ]irogres-
sive farmers in his district. He was horn in Sweden, December 6, 1853, a son of Carl and
Fredericka (.Johnson) Bowman, both of whom were natives of that country. The father
there passed away, after which the mother with her three sons came to America in 1876,
settling in Reed township, Cass county, North Dakota, where she spent her remaining days.
Klias Bowman was a young man of twenty-three years when he crossed tlu' Atlantic
to the new^ world with his mother and came to this state. He afterward worked for eleven
years for his brother, F. Boman, and then took up his abode upon the farm where he now
resides in Raymond township. In the intervening years he has made a marked change in
the appearance of the place, converting its wild land into prod\ictive fields, from which ho
annually gathers rich harvests, while to his farm he has added many improvenuMits tliat
show him to be a progressive man and one whose efforts are entirely practical. He has
planted a line grove and now has one of the good farms of his part of the county.
In 18S8 Mr. Bowman was united in marriage to Miss JIargaret .Johnson, a native of
Sweden and a daughter of Nels and Helena .Johnson, also natives of that country. The
father is still living in Sweden, but the mother has passed away. To Mr. and Mrs. Bowman
have been born four children: Ida E., at home; Helen W.. tlic wife of A. N. Lindsay: and
Carl .J. and Esther M.. both at home. The wife and mother passed away in 1901, leaving a
husband and four children to mourn her loss. Her death was a matter of deep regret to many
friends, for she had gained the good will and kindly regard of all who knew licr. ^Ir.
Bownnin is a self-nmde man who has gained all that he possesses since coming tu tlu' new-
world. He has worked persistently and energetically as the years have gone liy, realizing
tliat industry is the basis of all honorable advancement. He s\ipports the republican party
at the polls and for two terms has served as a member of the school board and has made a
highly creditable record in that capacity. Although his private affairs make heavy demands
upon his time and attention, he always finds opportunity to cooperate in movements seeking
the general welfare.
RUDOLPH HERDINA.
Rudolph Herdina, who has gained a gratifying success as a farmer, is residing on
section 29, Dwight township, Richland county. A native of Bohemia, he was born on the
31st of March, 1873, of the marriage of Frank and I'hilomena (Schubert) Herdina, both of
whom were born in Austria, the former in 18.52 and the latter In IS.'iO. In 187.'j they crossed
the ocean to the United States and. making their way westward, settled in Minnesota, where
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 123
the father turned hia attention to farming. Subsequently he removed to North Dakota,
vvliere he resided for fourteen years, after \vlii?li he returned to Minnesota and he and Ids
wife are now living at Blooming Prairie, that state. He is a democrat in politics and his
religious faith is that of the Catholic church. When he came to this country he was a
poor man but through industry and good management he has now acquired a competence.
To him and his wife were born twelve children, all of whom are now living and of whom
our subject is the eldest. The paternal grandfather, Frank Herdina, also emigrated to the
United States and made his way to North Dakota, where he homesteaded land, although he
passed away in South Dakota at the home of a son.
Rudolph Herdina received his education In the public schools of North Dakota and
remained here when his parents returned to Minnesota. He was early trained in practical
farming and has followed the occupation to which he was reared. When twenty-two
years of age he began his independent career and that he has been successful is indicated
in the fact that he now owns three hundred acres of fertile and well improved land on
section 39, Dwight township, Richland county. He follows general farming and is enter-
prising and progressive in his work, cultivating his crops carefully and using the latest
machinery. He is a director in the Farmers & Merchants Bank at Wahpeton.
In .1899 Mr. Herdina was united in marriage to Miss Lydia Chezik, a daughter of
Joseph and Rose Chezik, early settlers of this state, the father taking a homestead claim in
Richland county, which he farmed until he retired from active life. In his early manhood
he followed blacksmithing and for some time was in the employ of the government. He
was in this state during pioneer times and recounts many interesting frontier experiences.
Mr. and Mrs. Herdina have five children, all of whom are at home, namely: Viola, Phillip,
Marwil, Chester and Valerian.
Mr. Herdina casts his ballot in support of the men and measures of the democratic
party and in religious faith is a Roman Catholic. He began his career as a poor boy and
has at all times depended solely upon his own resources and can truly be termed a self-
made man. Although he has given the closest attention to his business affairs he has not
neglected his duties as a citizen and has always been willing to cooperate in movements
seeking the public welfare and advancement. During the thirty-three years that he has
resided in this state he has witnessed a remarkable change and takes justifiable pride in
the fact that he has had a part in bringing about the transformation.
MARTIN 0. THOMPSON.
Martin O. Thompson, an attorney of Lisbon, was born in Meeker county, Minnesota,
March 5, 1882, and with his parents came to North Dakota in the spring of 1884, the
family settling on a homestead near Fort Ransom, in Ransom county. He is a son of
Andrew and Inger (Hendrickson) Thompson, who were born, reared and married in Nor-
way and came to the new world in the late 'TOs, making their way to Minnesota, where
they remained for only a short period and then came to North Dakota, as previously
stated. They had a family of six children: Hannah, Thomas and Dora, all residents of
Fort Ransom; Martin 0.; Elbert, also of Fort Ransom; and Lena, living at Bemidji, Min-
nesota. The father died June 2, 1902.
Martin 0. Thompson obtained his early education in the common schools of Fort
Ransom and afterward spent two years in the Minnesota Normal & Business College, which
institution has since passed out of existence. For a year he was a student in the North
Dakota State Agricultural College and for a year in the college at Fargo. He subsequently
attended the State University for two years as a law student, there winning the B. L.
degree. For a period of one year thereafter he was employed as a law clerk in the office
of M. C. Lasell, of La Moure, and in 1912 he went to Lisbon after spending the summer of
1911 in looking about for a favorable location in which to practice his profession. He
opened an office in the Hamilton Bank block, where he has since remained, and in the inter-
vening period his practice has steadily grown in volume and importance. In the election
124 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
of November, lUl-1, lie was made state's attorney, having been tlie candidate on the demo-
cratic ticket, and is now the incumbent in the ottiee.
On tlie 5th of May, 1915, Mr. Tliompson was married to Miss Nettie Martin, wlio was
born in Mimay county, Minnesota, May 7, 1890, a daughter of Amond and Lena (Evanson)
Martin, botli of whom were natives of Wisconsin, wlience tliey removed to Jlinnesota, their
liome at present being in Fergus Falls, that state. The father was formerly identified with
merchandising but now gives his attention to farming. To him and his wife have been
born twelve children and theirs is a notable record, for the family circle yet remains
unbroken by the hand of death.
Fraternally Mr. Thompson is connected with Mystic Lodge. No. 14, I. 0. 0. F., at Lisbon
and also with the Ancient Order of L'nited Workmen. At one period in his career he devoted
about a year to the study of art, specializing in sculpture, and he takes keen pleasure in
fine works of art but he now concentrates his attention upon his professional duties, whicli
are bringing him into close connection with tlie most important work of the courts in his
district.
HENRY 0. GARDNER.
Henry 0. Gardner, a retired farmer living in Forman, was born at Toten, Norway,
September 17, 1S59. His father, Ole Gaardlos, was also a native of Norway, where he spent
his entire life. He alwijys engaged in farming and specialized in dairying and the raising
of clover. He died in April, 1902, while his wife, who bore the maiden name of Helen
Baomerud, passed away in June, 1902. She was born in the same locality as her husband
and they were married in 1845. They became the parents of eleven children, of wliom
Henry 0. is the fourth, and three of that family are still living.
Henry 0. Gardner was educated in the schools of Norway and afterward worked with
his father upon the home farm until April 1, 1878, when he resolved to try his fortune in
the new world and crossed the Atlantic to America. He settled in Jlinneupolis and as the
city was then somewhat involved in a financial panic he was forced to go out into the country
to obtain employment. He secured work on the farm of Charley Porter, in Redwood county,
Minnesota, with whom he remained for three months, after which he engaged in railroading,
in work in the harvest fields and in elerkhig in a general sture for a perind of four years.
At the end of. that time, or in 1S83, he removed to Jlontana, where he engaged in prospecting,
and he also worked for the government, assisting to build Fort MeGinnis. He was thus
engaged for about four years and in the fall of 1885 he returned to Norway.
There on the 10th of ^March, 1880, Jlr. Gardner was married to ^Miss Kirstine Dyste,
who was born March 8, 1859, ill lliirdalen, Nonvay, a diiughter of .John E. and Anna
(Volengcn) Dyste. Her father, who was born in 1814, passed away in 187:i, while her
mother, who was born in 1832, died in 1911. Tlieir family numbered nine children, of wlimn
:Mrs. Gardner is the seventh. Mr. and itrs. Gardner arc the only representatives of their
respective families in America. Following their marriage their bridiil trip consisted of a
voyage to the new world and a trip across the country to the North Dakota home. They
settled on a claim situated on section 32, l^utland township, Sargent county, and later
Mr. (iardner took up a tree claim located on section 31 in the same township. He afterward
added a third quarter section and engaged in farming his tract of four hundred and eighty
acres for seventeen years, during which time he made a specialty of raising stock. His
business affairs were carefully and wisely managed and his enteriirise imd sound judgment
were manifest in the success which attended his efforts. He is luiw liailiiig a retired life
and from his farm derives a good rental.
In his political views Mr. Gardner is a republican and has filled a imiiilicr of local olFiees,
serving on the township board of siijiervisors, also as treasurer, justice of the ])eacc and many
times as a member of the school board. Fraternally he is a JIason, belonging to Blue Lodge,
No. 5, at Forman, to the chapter at Lidgerwood, the commandery at Lisbon and El Zagal
Temple of the Mystic Shrine at Fargo. He and his wife are members of the Norwegian
Lutheran church. He has never had occasion to regret his detci inination to come to the
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 125
now world, for lie liere found tiie oppoitiinitii'S which he sought and in their employment
has worked his way steadily upward. His has been an active and well spent life in which
labor lias been crowned with success, the fitting reward of earnest, persistent eflort.
HARRY W. JIONTGOilERY.
Harry W. Montgomery, who is secretary and manager of the Jlinot Insurance Company
and to whom the success of that concern is largely due, was born at Grundy Center, Iowa,
September 20, 1884. His parents, Frank F. and Laura (Shaw) Jlontgomery, were natives
respectively of Brooklyn, Kew York, and Xenia, Ohio. After removing to Xorth Dakota in
the spring of 1889 the father engaged in the furniture business at Jamestown until 1898,
when he went on the road as a traveling salesman for Siegel Brothers, of Chicago. In 1907
he removed to that city, where he passed awaj- on Thanksgiving day. 1U14. His wife is
still living and makes her home in Chicago.
Harry W. Montgomery, an only child, attended school at Jamestown and was gradu-
ated from the high school there in 1903. He remained under the parental roof until 1907
although before that time he had begun to work for others. In April of that year he
removed to Minot and organized the Minot Insurance Company with R. E. Barron as presi-
dent and Mr. Montgomery as secretary and manager. The company is incorporated and
has fine offices in the new Jacobson block. It does a general insurance business and as it
represents a number of tlie best companies and as the men who are directing its affairs
are well informed as to ail kinds of insurance and are energetic and reliable it is but
natural that it should be accorded a large and representative patronage. In addition to
his responsible duties as manager he gives some time to the adjusting of claims.
Mr. Jlontgomery w-as married in August, 1907, to Miss Sarali ilorris, who w-as born
in Wisconsin and is a daughter of M. P. and Sarah Morris, who were early pioneers of
Grand Forks, Xorth Dakota. The father was connected with the Grand Forks Herald for
some time but subsequently worked on the Jamestown Alert for about seven years and is
now the publisher of the Stutsman County Democrat. He is also filling the office of post-
master of Jamestown and for about ten years he was on the county central committee.
His wife died in 1908. Mr. and Jlrs. Montgomery have three children: Harold, born June
17, 1908; Margaret, born June 3, 1912; and Ilraa, whose birth occurred November 12, 1914.
Mr. Montgoraerj- gives liis political support to the republican party but has never
aspired to ollice. He is a prominent member of the Elks lodge and is now serving as trustee
and as chairman of the Elks committee. He is likewise identified with the Sons of the
American Revolution. Although he has resided in JMinot for only eight years he has already
gained a recognized place as a factor in business circles and personally he has made many
sincere friends.
EIXAR MUUS.
Einar Muus gives a great deal of Ids time and attention to looking after the interests
of the Great X'orthern Lumber Company, Incorporated, of Minot, of which he is secretary
and treasurer, but also has other important business connections. He was born in Vestre
Toten, Norway, on the 1st of June, 1881, a son of Jacob and Julianna (Tetrud) Muus, also
natives of that place. The father was a farmer and foUow-ed that occupation until his
demise, which occurred in his native land. In 1910 the mother came to the United States
and is now living in Velva, Xorth Dakota.
Einar Muus, who is the sixth in order of birth in a family of eight children, received
the greater part of his education in X'orway, but following his removal to this country
attended Concordia College at Moorhead, IMinncsota, for nine months. He was sixteen
years of age when he crossed the Atlantic to the United States and he at once made his
way to Minot, North Dakota, where he worked for others for some time. For a while he
126 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
was in the employ of the Great Xortliein Railroad a..J later became connected with the
Kulaas Lumber Company, with which he remained for three years. In 1904 he engaged in
the lumber business independently and in 1905 he organized the Great Northern Lumber
Company, Incorporated, of which he is secretary and treasurer. The concern does a gen-
eral lumber business and deals in builders' supplies of all kinds, and the promptness with
which it tills orders, the high quality of the lumber sold and the straightforward methods
followed have combined to build up a large and prolitable patronage. Much of the success
of the company is due to the enterprise and the sound judgment of Mr. iluus, who is recog-
nized as one of the successful business men of his city. He is also president of the Balfour
Lumber Company and owns considerable land in the state which he rents. He is a director
of the Masonic Temple Building Association and of the Sons of Norway Building Association
and his advice and business c.\perienee have been of great value to those organizations.
Mr. Muus was married on tlie 23d of June, 1909, to Miss Nella Haugen, who was born
in Biri, Norway. Her parents, Martin and Christina (Haugen) Haugen, are both natives of
that country and are still living there. Her fatlier is a farmer and has met with success in
his chosen occupation. Mr. and .Mrs. iluus have three children: Erling, whose birth occurred
on the 9th of June, 1910; Julianna, born April 23, 1912; and Nora, whose birth occurred on
the 2Gtli of November, 1913.
Mr. .Muus endorses the national policies of the republican party but at local elections
casts an independent ballot. He has been called to public office and for two years has
served as a member of the city council of Minot and for a similar period as clerk of the
board of education. He belongs to the Masonic blue lodge, the chapter and commandery at
Minot, and to Kem Temple of the Mystic Hlirine at Grand Forks, and for one term he held
the office of secretary of the lodge. He is also identified with the Sons of Norway, in which
he has held all of the offices. Among the qualities which have enabled him to win success
are industry, determination and readiness to utilize opportunities, characteristics which
never fail to win respect and esteem as well as material reward.
JACOB OMDAHL.
Jacob Omdahl. filling the position of postmaster at Galesburg, was born in Norway
on the 18th of June, 1860, a son of Anders an<l Karen (Alfson) Omdahl, both of whom
spent their entire lives in Norway. No event of unusual importance occurred to vary the
routine of life for Jacob Omdahl in his boyhood, his time largely being devoted to the
acquirement of an education in the public schools. In 1879 he came to the United States,
settling in (loodhne county, Minnesota, where he secured employment as a farm hand.
He afterward worked in the same cajiacity in various counties of that state luitil 1885,
when he came to North Dakota, recognizing the ojiportunities here oll'ered. He took up a
homestead in Steele county and proving up the property and securing title thereto he
began adding to his land, purchasing another (piarter section adjoining the home place. He
then developed and cultivated a tract of three hundred and twenty acres until 190fi, when
he left the farm and removed to Galesburg, where he has since resided. He still owns the
property and derives therefrom a substantial annual income. In December, 1913, he was
appointed postmaster of his town, in which capacity he is now serving, making an excellent
record through the capable and reliable manner in which he administers the affairs of the
office. He also conducts a confectionery store and is meeting with good success in that
undertaking.
On the nth of J\ine, 1889, occurred the marriage of Mr. Omdahl and Miss Ellen Wilson,
of Minneapidis. Minnesota, and a native of Norway. To this union six children have been
born: Arthur \V., who is identified with the Board of Trade in Minneapolis: Ksther Nora, who
is studying to be a trained nurse in the Northwestern Hospital in Minneapolis; Alary E.,
who is teaching in the schools at Devils Lake, North Dakota; Clarence E., who is pursuing
a course in Akers Business College at Fargo; Alfred M., who is a high school student; and
Ruth .1.. who is attending the graded schools.
In polities Mr. Omdahl is independent, voting according to the dictates of his judgment.
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 127
His fellow townsmen, appreciative of his worth and ability have at various times called
him to public ofEce. He has served as a member of the town board and also as township
assessor and as a member of the school boaid. He has long been regarded as one of the
leading men of his township and in 1910 he was appointed to the office of census enumer-
ator. He and his wife are members of the Norwegian Lutheran church and they display
many sterling qualities which have gained them the warm regard of all with whom they
have been associated. Mr. Omdahl has never regretted his determination to come to the
new world. The opportunities which he here sought he found were to be secured and he
learned that industry in this country wins its reward. Gradually he worked his way upward
and his life record indicates what may be accomplished when one has the will to dare and to
do.
WALTER GREEN.
Walter Green, living in Diirbin township, Cass county, is the owner of valuable farm
property comprising five hundred and sixty acres, to the fui'ther development and cultivation
of which he gives his undivided attention. He was born in Michigan, January 2, 1S57, and
is a son of Eli and Esther (Gard) Green, both of whom were natives of that state. There
they were reared and married and after living for many years in Michigan they came to
North Dakota in 1880, settling upon a farm in Cass county. There they spent their remain-
ing days and the father became recognized as one of the leading farmers of the county, add-
ing to his possessions from time to time until his extensive land holdings embraced thirty-five
hundred acres, all of which was well improved. Much of this property has been sold bj- his
son. He was a progressive and enterprising man, accomplishing whatever he undertook, and
the methods which he followed commended him to the confidence and goodwill of all. In
the family were two children and the younger son, Frank, is now deceased.
Walter Green, the surviving member of the family, has always remained with his father
and he is still the owner of five hundred and sixty acres of land, which his father entered
and which constitutes a valuable farm property, to the care and supervision of which he
directs his activities, thus leading a useful, busy and active life. He has a wide acquaintance
in this part of the state and is spoken of in terms of high respect as a progressive and capable
business man.
L. N. ABBOTT.
L. N. Abbott, the efficient manager of the real estate business of Crandall, Flynn &
Tuttle, of Fairmount, is a man of marked public spirit and takes a great interest in every-
thing tending to promote the community welfare. He was born in West Cambridge, NeAV
York. .June 11, 1873, a son of E. B. and Elizabeth T). (Dennis) Abbott, natives respectively
of Saratoga county. New York, and of Washington county, that state. The father, who was
born in 1845. is still living but has retired, making his home in New York. The mother,
whose birth occurred in 1850, died in 1900. They were married in the Empire state and con-
tinued to live there until 1879, when they removed to ^Michigan. The father met with grati-
fying success as a stockman and farmer. In politics, he is a republican and has held a
number of town offices, and he belongs to the Presbyterian church, as did his wife. To them
were born four children, of whom two are living, the brother of our subject being Clarence,
who is engaged in the automobile business in Breedsville. Michigan.
L. N. Abbott received his education in the public schools of Breedsville, ilichigan, and
on beginning his independent career went to Kalamazoo, where he became connected with the
Michigan State Hospital. He remained there for six years and rose from an attendant to
assistant supervisor. He has resided in North Dakota since 1901 and in the intervening
fifteen years has gained a reputation in Fairmount and Richland county as an excellent
business man. Not long after his arrival in Fairmount he became connected with the real
estate business conducted by Charles A. Tuttle and now is manager of the Crandall, Flynn
128 TTTSTORV OF NORTH DAKOTA
& Tultle Land Company, wliicli buys anil ;«'lls land in \oitli and South Dakota. Hi- is an
oxc'clk'nt judge of land values and as he keeps in close touch with the real estate market his
operations in that field have been very prolltabU'.
In 1902 occurred the marriage of Mr. Abbott and Miss Pearl E. Tuttle, a daughter of
Albert H. Tuttle, a prominent attorney of Hartford, Slichigan. To this union have been
born three children: Maxine, eight years of age; and Dale and Donald, twins, five years old.
Mr. Abbott is a stanch republican and is active in party work, lie is at present serving
as mayor and has nuide an excellent record in that capacity, conducting muTiicipal all'airs in
a business-like manner. He is also on the school board. He was identilied with the Xatioiuil
Guard for several years and during the Spanish-American was was a member of the Thirty-
second Jlichigan Infantry, his military experience covering in all six years. During the war
he was in Sliafter's brigade, but saw no active service. Fraternally he belongs to the Knights
of Pythias, in the state organization of which he is now grand outer guard, and to the
Masonic blue lodge, in which he is junior warden. He is always willing to give of his time,
energy and thought to the development of Fairnu)unt and has done a great deal to promote
the community advancement not only as an individual but also as a member of the com-
mercial Club.
n. II. THIK
H. H. Thue is a well known, i]opular and pros|)orous nu'rchant and business man of
Horace, where he has made his home since 1890. Notably prompt, energetic and reliable,
'he so directs his elVorts that substantial results accrue and at the same time his eftorts are
a factor in promoting jmblic prosperity. He was born in Norway, March 14, 1802, a son of
Mr. and Mrs. li. li. Thue, both of whom passed away in that land. He had the benefit of
instruction in the iniblic and normal schools of his native country and in 1881 when a youth
of nineteen years sailed for the new world, thinking to lind better business conditions anil
opportunities on this side of the Atlantic, whore many uf liis fellow countrymen had pre-
ceded him. A large number had settled in Minnesota and to that state Mr. Thue made his
way, going first to Byron, Olmsted county. He had studied the English langiuigc in Norway
and was therefore more or less conversant with the speech of the jjeojile among whom he
cast his lot. He first secured employment at farm labor, which he followed tluougli the
summer months, while in the winter seasons he attended school and for a short period he
taught in the schools among the people who spoke the Norwegian tongue. The year 1SS:{
witnessed his arrival in North Dakota, at which tinu' he nuide his way to Norman, where
he worked through the harvest season. In the succeeding winter he returned to Minnesota
and again attended school, thus continuing his education thro\igh three winter terms. In
1884 he took >ip the homestead in Polk county, Minnesota, and although he lived tliereon for
a time he did not prove up. The same year he located in Crookston and secured a clerkship
in a general store, remaining in that position for two years. He spent the succeeding two
Vfars in Hatton, North Dakota, where he took np the juofession of teaching and was also
employed in various other ways.
The year 1890 witnessed Mr. Time's arrival in lloraie. North Dakota, and throni;li the
succeeding summer he worked as a farm hand, while in the following fall he embarked in
nierchanilising at Horace, in which business he has since been engaged, having been jironii-
nently indentilied with commercial interests at this point for the past twenty-five years.
He carries a laige and carefully selected line of goods, puts forth every endeavor to meet
the wants of his customers and in all his dealings is thoroughly reliable and trustworthy.
In fact he is one of the best known, most popular and highly esteemed country merchants
of Cass county and he well merits the success that has come to him in the conduct of his
mercantile interests.
Mr. Thue was married in Horace, in 1890, to Miss Caroline I'.rink. a daughter of C. f).
Brink, a pioneer of Cass county. To Mr. and Mrs. Thue have been born eight children,
Christian H., Selma, Florence, Orla, Theresa, Edna. Norma and Horace W., all of whom are
with their parents.
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 129
Mr. Time and his family are all members of the jSTorwegian Lutheran church and its
teachings lind exemijlilieation in their lives. Mr. Thue is a reimblican in his political views
and has served as ijostmaster of Horace and for some years as justice of the peace, discharg-
ing his duties at all times with promptness and fidelity. In the latter office he rendered
decisions which were fair and impartial and which won for him golden opinions from all
sorts of people. Fraternally he is connected with the Modem Woodman of America. In
every relation his life measures up to high standards and those who know him entertain
for him the warm regard which is ever given in recognition of sterling personal worth. In
manner he is social and genial, is always courteous and obliging in business and as the years
have gone on he has gained a wide circle of \varm friends who speak of him in terms of the
higliest regard.
JOHN F. McGUIRE.
John F. McGuire is one of the leading representatives of electrical interests in Minot
and has proved very capable as the local manager of the H. M. Byllesby Company of Chicago,
electrical engineers. He was born in that city on the 16ih of April, 18S0, of the marriage
of Patrick and Catherine (Herley) McGuire, the former of whom was born in Ireland and the
latter in St. Lawrence, New York. The father removed to Chicago in early manhood and
resided there for forty-four years, passing away on the 15th of September, 1914. He was a
blacksmith by trade. The mother died on the 21st of July, 1908.
John F. McGuire, who is the third in a family of nine children, received his education in
the public schools of his native city and in the commercial department of De Paul Univer-
sity. When seventeen years of age he began learning the electrical business and when
about twenty years old entered the employ of the Commonwealth Edison Company of
Chicago. He remained with that concern for about four years and worked his waj"^ upward
through all of the departments until he became connected with the contracting work of the
concern. In October. 1909, he removed to Minot, North Dakota, and became associated
with the Consumers Power Company as the representative of the H. M. Byllesby Company
of Chicago, electrical engineers, and since 1913 has been in full charge of the business of
that company in Minot. He devotes his entire time to the interests entrusted to his care
and his work has been very satisfactory to the company. He not only thoroughly under-
stands the electrical business, but he also possesses sound judgment and executive ability
and is a valued factor in the industrial circles of Minot.
Mr. McGuire was married on the 19th of April, 1911, to Miss Eleanor Halla, whose
parents, John and Sage (Quirk) Halla, were early settlers of Chicago. The father is
deceased, but the mother is still living in that city. Mr. and Mrs. McGuire liave a son,
John Halla, whose birth occurred on the 21st of April, 1914.
Mr. McGuire is independent in politics and has never been an ofBce seeker. His religious
faith is indicated by the fact that he is a communicant of the Roman Catholic church, and
fraternally he belongs to the Elks. His interest in the growth and development of Minot
finds expression in his membership in the Commercial Club, and he is active in carrying out
the projects of that body. He is progressive and up-to-date and keeps in touch with
advancement in the electrical field tiirough reading along technical lines and through his
membership in the Order of Jovians, an electrical association, and in the National Electric
Light Association.
PETER G. SWENSON.
Among the prominent citizens of Hillsboro, North Dakota, is Peter G. Swenson. who
has been engaged in the practice of law there since 1893 and served as state's attorney
of Traill county for four years. His birth occurred at Trondhjem, Norway, on the 23d of
December, 1866, but he was brought to this co\intry by his parents in boyhood and received
130 HISTORY OF \ORTH DAKOTA
his education in the Decorali Institute at Docoiali, Io"a, and in tlie law deifartmcnt of the
University of Jlinnesota, from wliich he was graduated with his professional degree in 18U3.
The following year ilr. Swenson located for the practice of his profession in Hillsboro,
North Dakota, where he has since remained and during the intervening period of twenty-
three years has built up a large and representative clientage. He studies his eases carefully,
taking into account every point that might possibly have a bearing upon the outcome of
the trial. In liis arguments before the court he is lucid and convincing, and the records
sliow that he has won a large portion of the cases in which he has appeared as counsel. In
1894 he was elected to the office of states attorney of Traill county and lilled that position
for four years, making a highly creditable record. He is a director of the Hillsboro National
Bank.
In 1895 Mr. Swenson was united in marriage to Miss Sofie Olson, and they have four
children, a son and three daughters. He takes the interest of a good citizen in political
affairs, but has held no important office outside of the strict path of his profession,
preferring to concentrate his energies upon the practice of law. He has, however, served
as a member of the board of education. He not only occupies a high position at the bar of
Traill county but is also popular personall.y. Fraternally Mr. Swenson belongs to Hills-
boro Lodge, No. 10, A. F. & A. M; Fargo Consistory; and El Zagal Temple of the Mystic
Shrine. He is also a member of Hillsboro Lodge, No. 30, K. P.
JOHN HENRY WORST.
John Henry Worst has devoted his life quite generally to educational work and for
twenty-one years was president of the North Dakota State Agricultural College at Fargo.
He has made that institution one of tlie most important factors in the advancement of
agricultural interests in the state and believes firmly that the farmers of the country
should cooperate to a greater extent than they have so far done and is convinced that if
they exerted a larger influence in affairs of government politics would be materially purilied
and the government would be strengthened.
Mr. Worst was born in Ashland county, Ohio, on the 23d of December, 1850, a son of
George and Margaret AVorst. His parents began their married life in that county at a
time when the Western Reserve was still covered with forest and their home was a primitive
log cabin. The father was a Gennan Baptist minister who farmed during the week and
preached on Sunday, as was at that time the custom in his denomination. Our subject
attended the common schools in his early boyhood and subsequently was a student in the
Smithville (Ohio) Academy, and in Salem College at Bourbon; Indiana, which has long
since passed out of existence. Still later he continued his education in Ashland College at
Ashland, Ohio, but did not complete his course there. Later, however, tliat institution con-
ferred upon him the degree LL. D. in recognition of his excellent woik as an educator,
especially as president of the North Dakota Agricultural College.
In early manhood .Mr. Worst began teaching in the rural schools and during the
summers followed agricultural pursuits but at length, on account of im])aired health, turm^l
his attention to merchandising, with which he was connected for two years. At another
time he was for two years editor of the Fairfield County (Ohio) Republican, but in 1883 he
came to North Dakota and took up a homestead in Emmons county. He resided there for
twelve years and during that time endured the hardships and privations incident to pioneer
life in the northwest. This experience of actual conditions was of great benefit to him
in his later work as head of the Agricultural College, enabling him to understand the needs
of the farmers of the state from a practical as well as from a theoretical viewpoint. While
engaged in proving up and farming his homestead he also held a number of offices. In the
fall of 1883 he was ajipointed county siiperintendent of schools and was later elected to
that office, serving therein until 1889, when he was chosen .state senator from the twenty-
sixth legislative district. He filled that jiosition of honor until 1894, when he was elected
lieutenant governor and during the winter of 1895 he presided with dignity and impartiality
over the deliberations of the state senate.
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 131
In the winter of 1895 Mr. Worst was made president of the North Dakota State Agri-
cultural College and director of the government experiment station connected with the
college, but resigned the latter position in 1913.. He kept in close touch with the work
being done in similar schools in other states, constantly seeking to make the Xorth Dakota
State Agricultural College of greater service to the farmers of the state and to promote in
every way possible the agricultural interests of the commonwealth. He manifested a high
order of executive ability, securing the hearty cooperation of the faculty and the student
body, and was recognized as one of the leading educators in his special field in the country. On
the 28th of February, 1916, he was removed from the presidency of the college, no cause
for such removal being assigned. Mr. Worst is now managing editor of the North Dakota
Farmer and also of the New Rockford Daily State's Center.
Mr. Worst was united in marriage in Congress. Ohio, on the 10th of October, 1872,
to Miss Susan Wohlgamuth, a daughter of Jacob and Barbara Wohlganuith. She was born
near Massillon, Ohio, where her father was engaged in farming. Mr. and Mrs. Worst have
become the parents of the following children: Olive Jeanette, who married Dr. Guy F. Rogers;
Clayton Leroy; and Lloyd Warner.
Mr. Worst is a stanch republican and previous to becoming president of the State
Agricultural College took an active part in politics, making many campaign addresses and
gaining an enviable reputation as a political speaker. In 1914, at the earnest solicitation
of his friends, he became a candidate for nomination for United States senator, but did not
make a personal campaign and was defeated at the primaries. He is well known frater-
nally, being a thirty-tliird degi'ee Mason and having served for twenty years as wise master
of Pelican Chapter, Rose Croix, and having also taken the York Kite degrees and being
past chancellor commander of the Knights of Pythias and a member of the Benevolent
Protective Order of Elks.
His interest in the commercial and civic advancement of the city is indicated by the
fact that he belongs to the Fargo Commercial Club and heartily supports its various proj-
ects for the general welfare. During the past seventeen years he has served either as
president or secretary of the Tri-State Grain and Stockgrowers Association, a body of
some eight thousand farmers who meet in Fargo annually for the discussion of subjects of
interest to farmers and the agricultural development of the three states. North Dakota,
Minnesota and South Dakota. He has also maintained a progressive attitude toward social,
business and political problems and has sought through careful study to do his share toward
reaching their correct solution. During the thirty-three years of his residence in the state
and especially during the twenty-one years that he was president of the North Dakota
State Agricultural College he has endeavored as an oflficial, writer and lecturer to serve the
common people and most of all to dignify the profession of agriculture. It is his firm belief
that if the farmers were educated in agricultural statesmanship so that they could officially
represent the forty billion dollars invested in the farming indiistry and could share in the
federal and state governments in proportion to their numerical strength that politics would
be raised to a higher plane and that the government would be more efficiently and more
democratically administered. The farmers of the nation produce a great part of the
national wealth, bear the national burden and cast a majority of the votes and he believes
they should exert a much larger influence in governmental affairs than they do at present.
In advocating advanced movements which he believes to be for the good of the state
and nation he is but manifesting the spirit of initiative and faith in the future which has
been one of the strongest characteristics of the Worst family as for generations they have
been pioneers, removing from the older civilization to the newer so as to take advantage
of its unusual opportunities and to have a part in its development. Our subject's great-
grandfather emigrated from Holland to the United States when only twelve years of
age and became one of the early settlers of Pennsylvania, clearing and bringing to a high
state of cultivation a tract of timber land. He was a man of fine character and great deter-
mination and was highly esteemed in his community. He reached the remarkable age of one
hundred and six years. His son, the grandfather of President Worst, cleared and partly
developed two farms in Pennsylvania and later located in Ashland county, Ohio, where he
also cleared a farm. He, too, reached an advanced age, dying when ninety-seven years
old. His son, George Worst, continued the family tradition and settling on the Western
132 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
Reserve in northern Ohio during its pioneer days, b«)Ught a tract of wild land under cultiva-
tion. He died when seventy-four years old. Our subject was a pioneer of North Dakota
and both of his sons Avere located for a time in Alaska. It is to such men as these that
the nuuvelous development of this country has been chielly due.
KEV. jnCHAEL SCH.MITT.
Rev. Michael Schmitt, pastor of St. derome's Catholic church at llohall, was born at
Harper, Keokuk county, Iowa, JIarch 23, 1884, a son of Frank and Margaret (AVehr)
Schmitt, both of whom were natives of Germany. Coming to America in the '60s, they settled
in Iowa, the father purchasing land in Keokuk county, where he carried on farming for many
years. He eventually retired from active business but continued to reside upon his farm until
he passed away in February, 1910. l-'ur about eight years he had survived his wife, who died
in July, 1902.
Their son, Michael Schmitt, was reared and educated in the public and parochial schools
of Keokuk county, Iowa, and at the age of seventeen years began studying for the priest-
hood, spending five years as a pupil in St. Francis' Seminary at Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He
was afterward for two years a student in St. Ambrose's College at Davenport, Iowa, and for
one year in the Kenrick Seminary at St. Louis, Missouri. He completed his studies in the
Seminary of St. Paul in St. Paul, Minnesota, in the year 1912 and immediately afterward
came to Mohall, having been appointed to the pastorate of St. Jerome's church, with which he
has since been connected, building up the church here in a most satisfactory manner. He
also has charge of St. James' church at Sherwood, St. Philomena's church at (ilenburn and
Holy Family cfiurch at Deering. He is now erecting a fine church edifice at Sherwood at a
cost of fifteen thousand dollars and is building a parochial residence at Jlohall at a cost of
five thousand dollars. He is likewise building a cluuch at Deering and thus the work is
being steadily carried forward. He belongs to the Knights of Columbus and he concentrates
his entire eil'ort upon the cause to which he has consecrated his life.
i5i:AnLi:v \v. clabaugh.
Bradley W. Clabaugh, the owner and editor of tlie l";iii mount News, is one of tlie well
known, inlluential citizens of Richland county. He was l)iirn i]i Frederick, Maryland, Jan-
uary 12, 18C7, of the marriage of Norman U. and Margaret (Font) Clabaugh. both natives
of that state, the former born on tlie :ilst of August, 1818. and tlic hitter in ls21. The
Clabaugh family is of Scotch descent but has V)een established in tlie Cnited States for
many years. The parents of our subject were married in Jlarylaiid and passed away in that
state, the father in 1892 and the mother in 1887. The former was a millwright and inventor
and was a man of good business judgment. In politics he sujiported the democratic party
and for one term he served as sherill of his county. His religious faith was that of the
Lutheran church. To him and his wife were born ten children; G. M. D.. who is a coach
trimmer residing in Frederick, Maryland; Mary, the wife of William Scachrist, a dairyman
living in Maryland; Bruce, who is deceased; Cliarles B.. an engineer living in Frederick;
William F., who owns a lime kiln in Keller, West Virginia; Susie, the wife of Fitzhugh Hauer,
a painter of Frederick. Maryland; Addie W., who is living in Washington, 1). C; Bradley
W.; R. L., a barber living in Washington. D. C; and Alvah, a resident of Baltimore.
Bradley W. Clabaugh was reared under the jiarental roof and received his education in
the schools of Frederick. In 1884. when seventeen years of age, he entered a newspaper
office and learned the printer's trade, with which he has since been connected. After a time
he went to Butte, Montana, and while there worked on the leading papers of the state, thus
gaining valuable experience. In 1888 he joined the Typographical Union at Baltimore. In
1896 he removed to Fairmount, South Dakota, and established the Fairmount News, which
he has since conducted and which has a circulation of twelve hundred. The paper gives the
REV. ^nCHAEL SCHMITT
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 135
local news and also brief accounts of happenings of general interest and it has gained an
enviable reputation for reliability. Mr. Clabaugh also does considerable job printing, for
which his office is well equipped.
In 1S95 occurred the marriage of Mr. Clabaugh and Miss Wilhelmina Wiedeman, a
native of Wisconsin, and they have two children: Vera M., who was graduated from the
high school at Fairmount, and also from the Valley City Normal School and is now acting
as assistant postmistress at Fairmount under her mother, the present postmistress; and Del-
win B., who is attending school.
Mr. Clabaugh is a democrat in politics and his advice is often sought in party councils.
He belongs to the Masonic order and the Knights of Pythias, and his wife is a member of the
Eastern Star, in which she has served as worthy matron for a number of years. She is also
a member of the Federated AVomen's Clubs, and her religious faith is indicated by the fact
that she is a member of the Congregational church. Mr. Clabaugh devotes his time and energy
almost exclusively to his newspaper and printing business and the success which he has
gained is largely attributable to the fact that he has continued to engage in the same busi-
ness which he entered as a young man.
PETER FUGELSO.
Peter Fugelso was one of the first settlers in Ward county and has continued to identify
himself with the interests of the county since his arrival there. He is one of the proprietors
of a hardware store in Minot and carries the most complete stock of any hardware dealer in
the county and as large a stock as anyone in the state. He was born in Trondhjem, Norway,
on the 28th of March, 1862, a son of Peter and Gurine Fugelso, both of whom were born in
that country. He is the youngest of a family of ten children and lost his father when but
three weeks old. In the spring of 1887 the mother came to America, where several of her
children were living, and settled at Foxholm, Ward county. North Dakota. She resided there
until 1908, when she died at the venerable age of ninety years.
Peter Fugelso received the greater part of his education in the common schools of
Norway, but after his emigration to the United States attended school for a short time in
Yellow Medicine county, Minnesota. As his father had passed away he was compelled to
earn his living when but six years old and he worked for others in his native land until he
was a young man of nineteen years, when he crossed the Atlantic to America. He landed
at Quebec, Canada, on the day that President Garfield was shot and continued his journey to
Canby, Minnesota, where he worked for several years. In 1886 he made his way up the
Mouse river from Fargo, North Dakota, with ox teams and took up a homestead in Ward
county, which had been organized only a short time before. His land was situated on the
present site of Foxholm, and he remained there until 1898, when he removed to Minot. For
some time he was employed in the store of Martin Jacobson as bookkeeper and clerk, but in
1901 he was appointed postmaster, which office he held for five years. He then accepted
a position with his old employer, Martin Jacobson, but on the 1st of Januaiy, 1907, he with
D. R. Jacobson purchased the hardware business of Martin Jacobson. They deal in shelf and
heavy hardware and handle a very complete line of goods. Their patronage is deservedly
large and their liberal business policy and unquestioned integrity have gained them high
standing in business circles. Their store is recognized as one of the leading mercantile
establishments of Minot and is a factor of no small importance in the commercial develop-
ment of the city. Although he still owns his homestead and also holds title to other land
in the state Mr. Fugelso devotes his entire time to the hardware business.
On the 2d of March 1899, occurred the marriage of ilr. Fugelso and Miss Sigrid Larsen,
whose birth occurred in Norway and who is a daughter of Guneris and Louisa Larsen, who
passed their entire lives in that country. Mrs. Fugelso accompanied her brother to this
country when eighteen years of age. By her marriage she has become the mother of six
children, Gerda Louise, Ralph Peter, Alph Severin, Leif Erick, Erling Sverre and Norman Carl.
Mr. Fugelso is a stanch republican and in addition to serving as postmaster of Minot
for five years was district assessor for two terms. He takes a commendable interest in public
Vol. n— 8
136 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
affairs and is never remiss in any of the duties oi-« good citizen. His religious faith is
that of the Norwegian Free Lutheran church and the sincerity of his belief is manifest in
the upriglitness of his daily life. Fraternally he belongs to the Maccabees and the Sons of
Norway and he is also a member of the Old Settlers Association, of Ward county of which
he is secretary. When he located in that county the town of Minot had not yet corae into
existence and Burlington was the county seat of the newly organized county. As the years
have passed he has not only witnessed the transformation of the county from a wild and
unsettled district to a region of well cultivated farms and prosperous towns but has
also done his part in bringing about the change. He is justly held in high esteem by all who
have come in contact with him.
JOSEPPI J. JIcINTYEE.
Joseph J. Mclntyre, carrying on general farming and stock raising, is one of the extensive
landowners of Cass county, his difl'crent purchases of property aggregating nine hundred and
sixty acres, all in llapleton township. Mr. Mclntyre is of Canadian birth, tlie place of his
nativity being Welland county, Ontario, and the date May 24, 1847. His parents were
Malcolm and Hulda (Doane) Mclntyre, the former a native of Scotland and the latter of
Canada. Coming to the new world, Malcolm Mclntyre was married in Canada and there
he and his wife spent their remaining days, rearing their family of seven children, of whom
four are yet living.
Joseph J. Mclntyre spent his youth in his native country and pursued liis education in
the public schools there. He was twenty-nine years of age when he arrived in Cass county
in 1S7C, at which time he took up his abode in the village of Mapleton, where he conducted
an implement store for several years. In 1880, however, he removed to the farm which he
now occupies and from time to time he has extended its boundaries until the place comprises
today nine hundred and sixty acres of valuable land, much of which he has brought to a
high state of cultivation, so that the fields return to him a gratifying annual income as the
result of the golden liarvests which he annually gathers. He makes stock raising a feature
of his farm as well as the production of grain and his business is carefully, systematically
and successfully managed.
In 1879 ilr. Mclntyre was married in Canada to Miss Henrietta Sherk, a native of that
country and a daughter of Peter and Drucilla (Boogner) Sherk, who spent their entire lives
in Canada. William F. Mclntyre, son of Joseph J. and Henrietta Mclntyre, operates the
home farm and is also one of the directors of the Mapleton State Bank and a stockholder
in the Farmers Elevator. He is a Avorthy exemplar of the Masonic fraternity, has taken
all the degrees of the order and belongs to the Mystic Shrine. His political allegiance is
given to the democracy and he has ably served as clerk of the school board.
Mr. Mclntyre is a member of the Odd Fellows lodge and his wife holds membership in
the United Brethren church. In politics he is a democrat and has served on the township
board and also as school director for a number of years. His interest in community affairs
is deep and sincere and he cooperates heartily in all those movements which relate to the
public welfare and further the general good. He has never had occasion to regret his
determination to come to the United States, for in Cass county he has found business
conditions which have brought to him substantial success as the years have gone on.
CARL T. JACOBSEN.
Carl T. .Jacobsen, who laid out Jacobsen's addition to Minot and who has been identified
with various business activities, was born in Denmark, April 28, 1847, the family home being
at Bristrop near the ocean. His parents were Jacob and Maren Jacobsen, also natives of
Denmark, where they spent their entire lives. When but ten years of age Carl T. Jacobsen
began working for others in Denmark at herding cattle and was thus employed until
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 137
eighteen years of age, \v]ien lie entered the regular arm}-, with which he served until Octo-
ber 32, 1871. He was then married, after which he was employed in a brewery in Denmark
for four years. Later lie secured a situation in a salt factory in Denmark, in which he
remained for two years, and at the end of that time he secured a situation as driver on a
beer wagon, making trips from city to city. He spent eleven and one-half years in that
way and in 1891 consummated his plans for coming to America. He landed at Quebec on
the 4th of May, 1891, and thence made his way direct to St. Paul. For two months he was
employed in railroad work at Sandstone, after which he came to Minot and occupied a
similar position for nine years, never losing a single day while in the employ of the Great
Northern Railroad Company at Minot. At the end of nine years he secured a homestead ten
miles west of Minot, near Burlington, where for seven j'ears he engaged in farming and
stock raising, carefully and wisely directing his interests. He then sold the property and
returned to Minot. where he now resides. He purchased two acres of land and later added
another acre, after which he engaged in the raising of garden products. In 1906, however,
he platted the land and has since sold off a large portion of it in town lots, the tract being
known as Jacobsen's addition. He also engaged in speculative building, erecting a number
of houses on the lots, and then disposing of the property. At the present time, however, he
is practically living retired, enjoying a rest which he has truly earned and richly deserves.
On the 27th of October, 1872, Mr. .Jacobsen was united in marriage to Miss Anna K.
Jacobsen, who was born February 27, 1848, and whose parents both passed away in their
home across the ocean before she became the wife of our_ subject. Mrs. Jacobsen passed
away April 12, 1911. She had become the mother of ten children, as follows: Andrew, an
agriculturist residing at Burlington; Martin, who is a general merchant and banker of Cut
Bank, Montana; Daniel R., who is a member of the Minot hardware firm conducting business
under the name of Jacobsen & Fugelso; Erik, who conducts an elevator and is also engaged
in the hardware business at Eolla, North Dakota; Henry, who is engaged in ranching near
Sweetgrass, Montana; Anton, also a rancher of Sweetgrass, Montana; Bertel, who lives in
Minot and is employed as a clerk by the firm of Jacobsen and Fugelso; Carl A., who is at
liome and is also employed as a clerk by Jacobsen & Fugelso; and two who are deceased.
Mr. .Jacobsen nor none of his sons have ever used tobacco in any form. In his political
views Mr. Jacobsen is a republican but tlie honors and emoluments of oflice have had no
attraction for him. He gave his undivided attention to his business affairs until he retired
and he is now enjoying a well earned rest, his former toil bringing to him the competence
that enables him to enjoy all of life's comforts and some of its luxuries.
LEWIS E. GEORGE.
Lewis E. George, a well known newspaper man, who since .June 1, 1911. has been editor
and publisher of the Hillsboro Banner, was born February 9, 1867, in Cannon Falls, Minne-
sota, his parents being Moses and Lucretia (Lewis) George. He completed his education in
the high school at Dodge Center, Minnesota, and when twenty years of age began publishing
a newspaper there. He has since been identified with newspaper publication at Ada, Minne-
sota, at Olivia and Fertile, that state, and on the 1st of June, 1911, he came to Hillsboro
and began the publication of the Banner, which he has since owned and edited, making it
an attractive journal, widely read. It is given to the dissemination of local and general
news and its free discussion of the significant problems of the day constitutes an interesting
feature of the paper. Mr. George has been continuously connected with the printing busi-
ness from the age of thirteen years, for even while attending school he worked at the trade
after school hours and during vacation periods. He made his initial independent step, as
stated, when twenty years of age, when he began to publish a weekly paper called the
Dodge Center Times. After two years' connection therewith he sold out and removed to Ada,
Minnesota, where he published the Ada Herald for a year and then removed to Fertile,
where he published the Fertile Journal for twenty years with the exception of one year
spent in publishing the Olivia (Minn.) Press. On the expiration of that period he returned
to Fertile and repurchased the .Journal, continuing its publication until 1910, when he sold
138 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
out. It was ill June of the following year tliat Tic fnireliased the Ilillsboro Baniu'r and
through the intervening period of five years he has been closely associated with the inter-
ests of the city in which he makes his home.
!Mr. George was married to Miss Constance Johnson, a daughter of W. P. Johnson, of
Crookston, Minnesota, and their children are Carl, George, Vila, Rai, Lyle and Dona. In his
fraternal connections Mr. George is a Mason, a Knight of Pythias and an Odd Fellow. His
political indorsement has ever been given to the republican party, in the interests of which he
issues his ]>aper, and upon the party ticket he has been called to several local oflijces. For six-
teen years he served as city recorder of Fertile and in March, 1915, he was elected a member
of the city commission of Ilillsboro for a term of four years, being therefore the present
incumbent in the oflice.
DANIEL R. JACOBSON.
Daniel R. Jacobson is the senior partner in (lie hardware firm of Jacobson & Fugelso, of
Minot, and belongs to that class of representative and valued citizens that Denmark has
furnished to North Dakota. He was born in that country October 5, 1877, a son of Carl T.
Jacobsen, who homesteaded in Ward county and is now living retired in Minot. Daniel R.
Jacobson began his education in the schools of his native country and after tlie family came
to the new world continued his education in the Minot high school. He was a youth of
fifteen years when he began working for others in Denmark and the following year he
accompanied his parents to America. He afterward worked on the range as a cowboy for
a number of years in the northwestern part of this state and at the end of that time secured
a homestead upon which he farmed and raised stock, carefully, systematically and success-
fully conducting tlie business for tliree years, but in 190,3 he removed to Minot. He then
engaged in teaming for about eiglitecn months and later became a member of the lirm of
Jacobson & Fugelso. owning and conducting a hardware store. Theirs is a well appointed
establishment and they enjoy a substantial trade. They have founded their success upon
thoroughly reliable business methods and have ever realized the fact that satisfied customers
are the best advertisement. Mr. Jacobson also still owns farm lands in North Dakota which
he rents.
On the 20th of Maj', 1903, Mr. Jacobson was united in marriage to Miss KIUmi Kittleson,
who was born near Ridgeway, Iowa, a daughter of Albert Kittleson, a native of Christiania,
Norway. He became an early settler of Iowa and had the privilege of securing a claim
where the city of St. Paul now stands but did not like the location and established his
home in the Hawkeye state. He devoted his attention to general agricultural pursuits
throughout his active business career and following the demise of his wife in Iowa came
to North Dakota with his children, settling in Minot, where he continued to reside until
called to his final rest in 190G. He met with a gratifying measure of success in his farming
operations and spent the evening of his life in honorable retirement. Mrs. Jacobson is the
youngest in a family of four children and by her marriage has become the mother of two
children, Henrietta I'herilda and Almira Viola, both at home.
Mr. Jacobson holds membership with the Modern "Woodmen of America, gives his
political allegiance to the republican party and indicates his religious faith by his member-
ship in the Lutheran church. His has been a well spent life actuated by honorable inuposcs
and characterized by the adoption of high ideals.
ASHER A. DmNE.
A.sher A. Divine is one of the well known and prominent stock raisers of Cass county,
living on section 8, Mapleton township, where he has a valuable and highly improved farm
of tliree hundred and twenty acres, on which he is making a specialty of the raising of
Holstein cattle, Yorkshire hogs and Percheron horses. His farm is thoroughly equijiped
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 139
for this purpose and his business places him among the leaders in this line in the eastern
part of the state. Mr. Divine is a native of Michigan, born October 26, 1856, his parents
being Westbrock and Elizabeth E. (Eossa) Divine, both of whom were natives of New York.
In early life, however, they became residents of Michigan and were married in the latter
state, where Mr. Divine took up the occupation of farming, following that pursuit in order
to provide for his family, numbering a wife and five children, two of whom are now living.
Asher A. Divine spent the days of his youth in his native state and its public school
system afforded him his educational privileges. He worked in the fields through the sum-
mer months and studied through the winter seasons and when his textbooks were put aside
he concentrated his energies upon the labors of the fields. In 1879 he went to South Dakota
and established a hotel at Doland, Spink county, where he remained for three years. On
the expiration of that period he began farming in that state but in 1894 came to North
Dakota, establisliing his home in Cass county. For eight years he filled the important posi-
tion of foreman on the Smith farm and later was for two years superintendent of the
Blanchard farm, owned by J. L. Grandin. While thus engaged he carefully saved his earn-
ings and at the end of that time purchased the farm on which he now resides, on section 8,
Mapleton township. His farm comprises three hundred and twenty acres of rich and pro-
ductive land, which he has improved with excellent buildings. He has two large silos upon
the place, substantial barns and sheds and a pleasant and comfortable residence. He makes
a specialty of raising stock. He has done much to improve the grade of stock raised in this
section of the state and has thus advanced public prosperity.
Mr. Divine has been married twice. In 1880 he wedded Miss Sabrina Curtis and to
them were born two sons: Glenn, who is married and lives in South Dakota; and Harry,
now a partner of his father in the operation of the home farm. The wife and motlier
passed away in 1905, and in 1906 Sir. Divine married Mrs. Frances (Geary) Heapes a
daughter of Colonel E. C. and Amelia (Wells) Geary, both of whom were natives of New
York, where they remained until 1866 and then removed westward to Minnesota. In the
'80s they came to North Dakota, settling at Fargo, where the father served as registrar and
receiver of the land office and there made his home until his death, which occurred in 1913.
His widow still survives. In their family were six children, five of whom are living. By her
former marriage Mrs. Divine had one son, Francis G. Heapes, a member of Company B,
North Dakota National Guard, who accompanied his regiment to Mexico.
Mr. Divine is a prominent Mason, belonging to the lodge at Fargo. He has taken all
the degrees of the York Rite, including that of Knight Templar, and has also become a
member of the Mystic Shrine. He is likewise connected with the Ancient Order of United
Workmen. In his political views he is a republican and has served as a member of the
school board and in some of the township offices. His wife belongs to the Eastern Star and
in religious faith is a Christian Scientist. Both Mr. and Mrs. Divine have a wide acquaint-
ance in Cass county and their salient traits of character are of such sterling worth that
they enjoy the highest regard, confidence and goodwill of all with whom they have been
associated. In business Mr. Divine has displayed untiring activity, keen sagacity and enter-
prise, and the careful management of his interests has brought him to a position among the
most progressive agriculturists of Cass county.
FREDERICK A. BURTON.
Frederick A. Burton, of Wahpeton, who is serving in his fourth continuous term as
county auditor, was born in Cranston, Rhode Island, on the 1st of June, 1851. His parents,
William and Marcella (Nicholas) Burton, were likewise natives of that state, where they
were reared and married. The father, who was a farmer by occupation, removed westward
in 1854 and settled on a farm in Allamakee county, Iowa. He resided there for a number
of years and passed away at Waukon, that state. He was a republican in politics and took
a keen interest in public affairs. To him and his wife were born four children, two of whom
are living. The brother of our subject, Lewis Burton, resides at McNeal, Arizona. He
homesteaded land there a few years ago and is now engaged in farming and in merchandis-
140 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
ing. The paternal grandfatlier, George Burton, wns also born in Rhode Island and the
great-grandfather served in the Revolutionary war and eventually died from the ettccts of
the hardships which he endured while at the front. The Burton family was established in
America long before that conflict by tv.o brothers, who emigrated to the new world from
Wales. The maternal grandfather, William Nicholas, was likewise a native of Rhode
Island.
Frederick A. Burton was but three years of age when taken by his parents to Allamakee
county, Iowa, and there he grew to manhood. After attending the common schools he
entered the Waukon high school and upon finishing his education he engaged in teaching
for three years. He then became a grain buyer in Iowa, continuing in that occupation there
until his removal to Preston, Minnesota. In 1888 he became a resident of Wild Rice, Cass
county. North Dakota, where he engaged in the grain business for a number of years, but
at length removed to Abercrombie in 1893. In 1901 he was appointed deputy county
auditor of Richland county and removed to Wahpeton, the county seat, where he served in
that capacity for six years. In 1908 he was elected auditor. He has since been reelected
three times and is still serving in that office. He is systematic and accurate in carrying
on his work and is recognized as one of the best officials that the county has had.
On the 2Tth of August, 1884, Mr. Burton was married to Miss Ida Bigelow, a native of
Ohio, who removed to Iowa with her mother but subsequently went to Preston, Minnesota.
Six children have been born of this union, of whom five are living, namely: Edwin W,, a
resident of Wahpeton; Vixtor E.. who works for the Ottertail Power Company; Blanche E.,
a trained nurse living in Fargo; and Cora E. and Gertrude M. M., both at home.
Mr. Burton is a I'cpublican in politics and in addition to th^ offices which he has held
in Richland county he served as alderman at Preston, Minnesota. Fraternally he is con-
nected with the JIasonic blue lodge and with the Modern Woodmen. He is highly esteemed
not only because of his ability but also because of his integrity and his agreeable personal
qualities.
REV. LAURENCE G. MOULTRIE.
Rev. Laurence G. Moultrie, a clergyman of the Episcopal church, now acting as rector
at Valley City, was born in Devonshire, England, in 1SG6, a son of tlie Rev. Gerard Moultrie
and a grandson of John Moultrie, both natives of "the merrie isle." The last named was at
one time head master at Rugby, which position established him as an eminent educator, and
he was also widely known through his poetic w-ritings. His son, Gerard Moultrie, became a
minister of the Episcopal church and spent his entire life in England, where he passed away in
1885. He married Elizabeth Anstej', also a native of that country, and they became parents
of five sons and four daughters, of whom Laurence G. was the seventh in order of birth.
After pursuing his classical course at St. Edwards school. Oxford, Rev. Laurence ('•. Moul-
trie became a student in the theological seminary at Faril)ault, Minnesota. He came to the
United States in 1887 with the intention of farming, whidi occupation he followed for four
years, but in that time ho became convinced that he would find a broader field of xisefulness
in the ministry and entered upon preparation thereof. He was ordained in 1895 and after-
ward spent three years in pastoral work at Detroit, Minnesota, while later he was located
for a time in Kansas City. In 1899 he was appointed to All Saints church at Valley City,
North Dakota, where for seventeon years he has now remained, cloing splendid work for the
upbuilding of the church and the extension of its influence. He is an earnest, convincing
speaker and a broad-minded, public-spirited man. thoroughly interested in the questions that
affect the sociological, economic and political conditions of the country.
On the 2.'5d of October, 1895, Rev. Moultrie was married to Miss Caroline Isabelle Dane,
a native of Minnesota and a daughter of Brewster and Lavina Dane, wlio were pioneer
settlers of Minnesota, Mrs, Moultrie, who always took a deep interest in church work and
greatly aided her husband in his pastoral duties, died in December, 1913, leaving a son,
Gerard Earlc. who was graduated from the Shattuck Militarj' Academy at Faribault, Minne-
sota, in 1916.
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 141
Rev. Moultrie gives bis political allegiance to tlie republican party and is now serving
as alderman of his city. He is very prominent in Masonic circles, belonging to the blue
lodge, chapter, council, commandery, Scottish Rite and Mystic Shrine. He is grand orator
of the Grand Lodge of North Dakota, grand high priest of the Grand Chapter and grand
chaplain of the Grand Council, while of the Grand Commandery he is a grand prelate. For
a number of years he has served as secretary of both the lodge and chapter at Valley City. He
is also chaplain of the First North Dakota Infantry now serving at Mercedes, Texas. He is
much interested in local affairs, serving as superintendent of the cemetery, as a director of the
Chautauqua at Valley City and as editor of the North Dakota Sheaf, the district cliureh
paper. His influence is always on the side of advancement and improvement and progress
has ever been his watchword.
JOHN B. JOHNSON.
Norway has furnished a large percentage of substantial citizens to North Dakota, men
who have brought with them the enterprise, perseverance and industry which characterize
the people of the land of the midnight sun. John B. Johnson was born in Hardanger, Nor-
way, in 1859. His father, Brigt Johnson Ryklcen, was born in Norway in 1831 and became
both a farmer and sailor of that country. He crossed the Atlantic to the United States in
1866, settling in Winona county. Minnesota, after which he removed to Chippewa count \-,
that state, where he remained until 1878, when he established his home in Sheyenne town-
ship. Richland county. North Dakota, there continuing until 1885, which year witnessed
his arrival in Sargent county, North Dakota. He settled on a farm about a mile from
De Lamere, although the town was not created until the following year, at which time it
consisted of a general merchantile store, established by John 0. Rustad, of Kindred. Cass
county, and a postoffice. The town was named for a Mr. De Lamere, who was one of the
officials of the Northern Pacific Railroad and whose two sons served in the Spanish- American
war. The father of John B. Johnson settled on the northeast quarter of section 7, Hall
township, Sargent county, which he purchased, and there he carried on general farming,
contributing to the agricultural development of the district until his death, which occurred
in 1908. He was a republican in his political views. In 1855 he wedded Christie Olson Moe,
who was born in Norway in 1833 and is now living with her son John in De Lamere at the
age of eighty-three years, being still very active and well preserved. By her marriage she
became the mother of ten children, of whom John B. is the second, and six of the number
are yet living. Four of the children were born in Norway and accompanied their parents
on their removal to the new world.
John B. Johnson was a little lad of seven summers at the time he came with his father
and mother to the United States, after which he pursued his education in the district schools
and later continued his studies in the Lutheran College at Decorali, Iowa. He was after-
ward employed in a general store at Montevideo, Minnesota, devoting three years to that
occupation. In 1878 he accompanied his father to North Dakota and homesteaded a claim
constituting the northeast quarter of section 8, Hall township, Sargent county. He took up
his abode thereon and with characteristic energy began its development, continuing its culti-
vation until 1892, at which time he removed to Jtilnor, where he engaged in the hardware
trade in connection with his brother-in-law, Ole Hanson, with whom he remained for a year.
In 1893 he established his home in De Lamere and entered into partnership with Carl Dahlen,
of Hall township, and Erick Sovde, of Milnor township, forming a company for the conduct
of a general mercantile business. Theirs was the second general store in De Lamere. On the
3d of March, 1893, he sold the first pair of shoes from the new store, which was the first bit
of merchandise to leave the establishment. During this time Mr. Johnson and the two
owners of the former town site, Ole Larson and John Rustad, became involved in a contro-
versy in regard to the distribution of the town property. The two former owners made an
effort to keep all of the town property in their own names, refusing to sell or to lease any
of the lands. This metliod did not strike Mr. Johnson as fair and consequently he proceeded
to have the town moved farther west, with the aid and influence of M. M. Johnson, a promi-
142 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
nent North Dakota politician of tliat day, and after a hard struggle John B. Johnson was
able to move the town to its present location. He was made the lirst postmaster after the
removal. Since the removal to the new site the town has flourished and lilr. Johnson has
been one of the most active |)roinoters of its growth and development. After a time lie pur-
chased the interest of liis partner and became sole owner of the general store which he con-
ducted for six years. In 189S he embarked in the hardware and implement business, in wliicli
he continued until 1910, when, owing to ill health, he traded his business for a three hunilred
and twenty acre farm located in Sargent county. He still makes his home in De Lamere.
On the 24th of March, 1884, Mr. Johnson was united in marriage to Miss Anna M. Han-
son, who was born in Crawford county, Wisconsin, in 1867, a daughter of Morris and Kari
Hanson, who were natives of Sogn, Korway, and on emigrating to the United States settled
in Wisconsin. They drove from Milwaukee to their farm, situated near De Soto, Wisconsin,
making the trip with a team of oxen. Both parents are now deceased and Anna M. John-
son was the youngest of their family of six children. To Mr. and Mrs. Johnson were born
six children: Bernliard who was born in 1885 and died in 1907; Clarinda, born in 1887;
Christina, in 1899; Albert, in 1891; Christian, who was born in 1893 and died in 1894; and
Julia, who was born in 1894 and died in infancy. The wife and mother passed away
November 24, 1895, and her death was the occasion of deep and widespread regret among
those who knew her. Albert Johnson, the fourth child of the family, is a progressive young
lawyer, who will graduate from the University of Chicago with the class of 1917 and who
seems to have a bright future before him.
Politically John B. Johnson is a republican and for fifteen years he acceptably filled the
office of justice of the peace. He has also been school clerk and is secretary of the drainage
board of Sargent county. He has been a delegate to many of the state conventions of the
republican party and he has served as chairman of tlie republican county central committee,
of which he is still a member. At one time he was survey clerk and helped to lay out
practically all of the roads in his township. A spirit of progress and advancement has
actuated him at all times. He was one of the promoters of the telephone service now
enjoyed by the people of De Lamere and vicinity and he has been actively connected with
the educational interests of his locality. He taught school for years in Richland county and
in the town of De Lamere, in fact was the first man to teach in the town schools. He is
likewise connected with the moral progress of the community, being an active and faithful
member of the Lutheran church, of which he is the secretary. His inlluence is always on the
side of progress, reform and improvement, of truth and right, and his work has been of a.
practical character that accomplishes substantial and far-reaching results.
JAMES HOLES.
Wlien death called James Holes on the 2d day of June, 1916, there passed from this life
one who up to that time was the earliest of the living settlers of Fargo. He had for
many years figured as a well known and progressive farmer and business man of Fargo
township, Cass county, where he settled ere tlie city of Fargo was established, and with
every phase of pioneer development and later progress in the district he was closely identified.
He was born in Bradford county, Pennsylvania, January 29, 1845, his parents being James
and Mary (Hibbert) Holes, who were natives of Derbyshire, England, and came to the United
States in 1832, settling near Ithaca, New York, the father assisting in making the rock cuts
south of that city. He subsequently removed to a farm five miles from Ithaca and later
establislied his home in Bradford county, Pennsylvania, where he settled upon a tract of
land in the midst of a forest, there hewing out a farm. In the spring of 1850 he removed
to a farm near Oswego, New York, where James Holes spent sixteen years of his boyhood
and youth, his education being acquired in the common schools near the family home. The
father died when his son was a lad of fifteen years and the care of the home farm then
fell upon the young shoulders of the son and upon his mother. He remained with her to
assist her in every possible way until he reached his twenty-first year, when he followed
the advice of Horace Greelev and came to the west. At that time he had saved from hi»
JAMES HOLES
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 145
earnings about one thousand dollars and he received an additional eight hundred and fifty
dollars from his father's estate. It had been a long cherished ambition prior to his removal
to the west that he might one day own one thousand acres of land and with his capital of
eighteen hundred and fifty dollars he made his way to St. Cloud, Minnesota, and soon there-
after began investing. Two years later, when he had reached the age of twenty-three, he
was the owner of thirteen hundred acres on which there was no indebtedness.
Subsequently Jlr. Holes disposed of portions of his property from time to time and
in July, 1871, he came to Dakota territory, camping the first night — the 4th of July — four
blocks west of where the present postoffice of Fargo now stands. The town, however, had
not been platted at that time. His object in coming was to hold the land for the Puget
Soimd Company, which company knew of the intention to build a town upon the site.
Mr. Holes was to receive one thousand dollars a year with the privilege of conducting a
supply store at the same time and was to be paid extra for any work he did in the way of
development. Upon his arrival, however, he found that the company had made other
arrangements and he purchased a claim from Ole Hansen, who formed one of the Scandi-
navian colony that left Goodhue county, Minnesota, in May, 1871, and at Gerogetown crossed
the Red river into Dakota territory, from which point they came north, fording the
Sheyenne river and arriving on the present site of the city of Fargo on the 17th of May,
1871. They were the first settlers upon the town site and their claim extended to both
sides of what are now the corporation limits. These settlers were bought out by the
Puget Sound Company. The quarter section of land which Mr. Holes purchased from
Mr. Hansen remained his place of residence and he owned one hundred and eighty acres
adjoining the corporation limits of Fargo and also seventeen hundred and forty acres near
Hunter, in Cass county. In all the intervening years to the time of his death he was a
well known and valued resident of that district, carrying on agricultural pursuits for an
extended period. For six years prior to his demise he had the state agency for North
Dakota and Montana for the Emerson Wild Oats Separator Company and during the j^ear
1914 did a business of forty-five thousand dollars. At a meeting of the Washington Club
held a short time prior to his death he was called upon to give an account of early conditions
in Cass county and on that occasion said:
"During the summer of 1868 and 1869 I made several trips to Fort Abercrombie, where
the village of Abercrombie now is, so when I came to the Red River valley on July 18, 1871,
I was not an entire stranger to the conditions that prevailed here at that time. I came
alone with a pair of horses, covered wagon and tent, driving from St. Cloud, Minnesota, to
what is now Fargo. The first persons I met were Jacob Lowell and Henry S. Black. I met
them about two miles south of where Moorhead is now, and they directed me to a feiTy near
where the new filtration plant now stands. This ferry was so small we had to cross the
horses first and then the wagon afterward. W^hen I got to the west side of the river the
first thing that attracted my attention was a tent and a man sitting in the shade playing
a waltz on a violin. Soon a woman came out and waltzed to the tune he was playing. This
was Captain George Egbert and wife. As I got on higher ground I saw a little north and
west a board house near the slough. This belonged to Henry Fuller and was the first board
house built in Fargo. In the western part of Fargo Andrew Holes and his wife were camped,
Mrs. Holes, who now lives in Moorhead, being the first white woman who lived in Fargo.
I drove to where they were camped and camped with them. Two months prior to this, on
May 17, 1871, the first settlement of Fargo was made by a party of Scandinavians from
Goodhue county, Minnesota, who had crossed the Red river at Georgetown, Minnesota, and
come up the west side of the river and settled just north of Fargo and south of where
Peter P. Goodman and Jacob P. Metzger settled in December, 1870. They consisted of
young men bachelors and a few married men. All their wives were left behind at Fergus
Falls, that being the nearest white settlement. These parties were nearly all bought out
by the Puget Sound Company, Ole Jansen Lee, Lars Martin, the Johnson Brothers, and one
or two others remaining. Ole Hansen settled where James Holes now lives, but on the
river. Mr. Peterson settled in Oak Grove. Mr. Johnson settled where the Washington
school now stands. There was another settler in the northeast part of the city who built
a log cabin near the lagoon or old river bed. At that house the directors of the Northern
Pacific Railroad were entertained by Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Holes on several occasions. South
146 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
of Fargo, Ole Jansen Lee, Ole Matlierson, Lars Martin, Easton and Jens Johnson, brothers,
settled. This constitutes all or nearly all of the colony who settled here May 17, 1871. These
people, constructed primitive cabins of logs wjth bark roofs, the bark being covered with
sod, making a cool roof in summer and a warm roof in winter. None of these houses had
either doors or windows; such lu.xuries were not yet indulged in. About the first of July
other Settlers began to arrive, Mr. Andrew McHench and wife, Henry Fuller, whose wife was
at that time in the state of Maine, Charles Roberts and wife, Jacob Lowell, Ilenry S. Black,
James Holes and others. The country was entirely wild. Countless millions of grasshojipers
swarmed everywhere. The woods were full of great owls and prairie wolves were sneaking
around the prairies. The hooting owls and barking wolves broke the monotony of the
nights. The mosquitoes in summer and blizzards in winter did much to make life miserable,
but notwithstanding we managed to get enough out of life so none of the first settlers com-
mitted suicide and all those who stuck to the Ked River valley and did what they could
have prospered financially. As to the city of Fargo, I have not been disappointed. It has
become about such a city as I expected it would, fortj' years ago, as it is well situated and
should become a large citj'."
In June, 1889, Mr. Holes was united in marriage to Miss Rlioda Harrison, a native of
Wisconsin, who passed away in 1908, and they became the parents of three children: James
H., who was a resident of Foster, California, but who has returned to Fargo and will take
charge of and manage the Holes estate; Bernard R., of Fargo, who is in the employ of the
Ford Automobile Company; and Marguerite V., who acted as private secretary to her father
and will assist her brother in the management of the estate. The Holes home is one of the
most beautiful residences in the state and is presided over by Miss Marguerite Holes in a
most gracious manner. She had the careful rearing of her mother, who was a beautiful and
intellectual lady and who possessed exceptional ability as an artist, which fact is demonstrated
by the many attractive canvases painted by her which adorn the walls of the home. The
daughter has the motlier's artistic temperanumt as is shown by the exterior embellishments
and the interior decorations of the home, over which she has now presided for eight years.
Mrs. Holes was a great worker in the cause of charity and the poor of the city have
reason to remember her kindliness and helpfulness on many occasions. Mr. Holes, too, was
a generous contributor to charitable organizations, giving freely where aid was needed. His
activities extended into various fields. He was a member of the American Equity Society
and was its president for a number of years. He was also a member and director of the
Farmers Mutual Society, of which he served as vice president for several years. In his
political views Mr. Holes was a progressive republican and for nine years served as county
commissioner and for a number of years was a member of the township school board, of
which he was treasurer. His interest in the public welfare was of a most substantial
character and his labors contributed to the material development and progress of his section
of the state, where for a number of years he was the oldest living settler. When death
called him the funeral services were held at his residence on Korth Broadway and were
so largely attended that the liouse could by no means accommodate the concourse of
people who gathered. The worth of his work as a pioneer settler and ])rogressive citizen
can scarcely be overestimated and his name will long be honored and his memory cherished
in the community in wliich lie lived.
E. J. HURLEY.
E. J. Hurley is engaged in the real estate business at Fairmount and also has important
farming interests. He was born in Pierce county, Wisconsin, on the Sth of September, 1838,
a son of Thomas and Catherine (Welch) Hurley, both born in Ireland in IS.'IO. The paternal
grandfather, James Hurley, emigrated with his family to the United States in 1847 and
passed away in Galena. Illinois. He was a cabinetmaker by trade. The maternal grand-
father, Michael Welch, became a resident of El Paso. Wisconsin, many years ago and there
his demise occurred. The parents of our subject were married in Janesville, Wisconsin, in
June, 1855. The mother came to the United States in 1845 and the father in 1847. The
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 147
Hurley family first settled in Massachusetts, but removed successively to New Hampshire,
New York, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. Thomas Hurley, father of our subject, died in El
Paso, Wisconsin, but the mother died in Ellsworth, that state. He was a communicant of
the Catholic church and gave his political allegiance to the democratic party. He held a
number of township offices and took an active part in public affairs, wielding a large
influence in his community. He was not only a fine business man and a very successful
farmer, but he was also an excellent mathematician. To liim and his wife were born five
children, four of whom are living, namely: James, who formerly engaged in farming, but
is now working in a store in Ellsworth, Wisconsin; E. J.; Mrs. Mary Ann Hawkins, whose
husband is farming near Hammond, Wisconsin; and Thomas, rural mail carrier of Wlieaton,
Minnesota.
E. J. Hurley received his education in the common schools and early in life became
familiar with agricultural work. Previous to coming to Dakota territory in 1880 he worked
on a farm in Minnesota and after living in this state for a time returned to Minnesota,
where he resided until the fall of 1901. He then removed to Fairmount, Richland county,
this state, and opened a real estate office. He has since devoted a great deal of his time and
attention to the real estate business, buying and selling outriglit and on commission, and
his accurate knowledge of what constitutes a good farm has enabled him to deal in farm
lands to a good advantage. He still owns land in Minnesota and his farming interests
return to him a good income.
On the 14th of February, 1891, Mr. Hurley married Miss Susie J. Hopkins, who Avas
born in Virginia, but became a resident of Graceville, Minnesota, in 1880. Her father,
Stephen Hopkins, devoted his life to agricultural pursuits. To Mr. and Mrs. Hurley have
been born five children: Stephen E., who is a young man of twenty-two years, is an attor-
ney of unusual promise and has won considerable note as a lecturer and as a literary man.
He is a graduate of the law school of the Georgetown University and of the Catholic Univer-
sity of America, both at Washington, D. C. Catherine, Josephine, Marcella M. and Susie
R. are all at home.
Mr. Hurley is a stanch adherent of the democratic party and has served ably as justice
of the peace for a number of years. His religious faith is that of the Catholic church, to
the teachings of which he is most loyal. Fraternally he holds membership in tlie Knights
of Columbus and the Catholic Order of Foresters. He was one of the trustees of the School
of Science at Wahpeton and is always ready to give of his time and thought to the promo-
tion of the general welfare. His business interests are ably managed and he has met with
a gratifying and well deserved measure of success.
W. M. WAGNER.
Among those men who have contributed in large measure to the commercial growth
and expansion of Wahpeton is W. M. Wagner, president of the Wagner Candy Company.
He was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on the 25th of August, 1856, a son of John and
Amelia Wagner, both natives of Germany. They became residents of Milwaukee in 1854,
and the father engaged in blacksmithing there for some time, subsequently removing to
southern Minnesota, where his demise occurred. His wife passed away in North Dakota.
His religious faith was that of the Lutheran church, and his political allegiance was given
to the democratic party. He and his wife were the parents of eight children, namely: John,
a retired farmer living in Grand Meadow, Minnesota; Mrs. Krouse, whose husband is also a
retired farmer of Grand Meadow; W. M. of this review; H. J., a confectioner of Arthur,
this state; Frank, a resident of Grand Meadow, Minnesota; Mrs. Fox, who died in Marion,
Wisconsin, in 1909; Albert, who is farming in Minnesota; and Mrs. Anna Jancj', the wife
of a farmer of Nelson, Wiconsin. The paternal grandfather, John Wagner, was a lifelong
resident of German}'.
W. M. Wagner received his education in his native state and remained at home until
1879, when he went to Grand Meadow, Minnesota. He worked as a farm hand in that
localit}' for two summers, after which he came to North Dakota, where he followed the car-
148 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
peiitei's trade for a time. Subsequently he went to Citsselton, where he engaged in harness-
making until 1882, when he went into business for himself at Ai-thur. In 1889, after
remaining there for seven years, he removed to Wahpeton and established a furniture store,
which he conducted for nearly eight years. At the end of that time he sold out and went
into the retail confectionery business, in which he continued until 1910, when he organized
the Wagner Candy Company, Inc., which is capitalized for fifty thousand dollars and which
sells at wholesale candy, tobacco and cigars. The business is represented by frvvo men on the
road and its products have already gained an enviable reputation for purity and high quality.
In addition to his manufacturing interests Mr. Wagner owns valuable land in Canada and
fruit land in ilontana. He has prospered in all that he has undertaken and is justified in
taking pride in his success as he has at all times depended solely upon his own eilorts.
On the 7th of April, 1894, occurred the marriage of Mr. Wagner and Miss Mary J.
McKinnon, who was born in Canada and by whom he has two children: Arthur J., who
travels for the Wagner Candy Company; and Hattie May, a high school graduate. The son
and daughter are both members of the Episcopal church, but the parents attend the Methodist
church.
Mr. Wagner is identified with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, in which he has
passed through all of the chairs, and with the Yeomen. His political support is given the
republican party, and he served acceptably as alderman of Wahpeton for four years. He is
interested not only in the material advancement of his community, but also in its progress
along other lines and is recognized as a man of marked public spirit. He is widely known
and highly esteemed.
ALEXANDER A. WALIOIR, V. S.
Dr. Alexander A. Walker, of Casselton, Cass county, who has the distiction of being
the oldest veterinarian in the state, devotes practically his entire time to his practice, which
is extensive and profitable. He was born in Ontario, Canada, on the 18th of December, 1846,
a son of James and Ann (McKee) Walker. The father was born in County Armagh, Ireland,
and passed away in 1898, and the mother was born on the Atlantic ocean, while her parents
were on their way to America from Ireland. Her father, Alexander McKee, was born
in County Monaghan, Ireland, and his last days were passed in Ontario, Canada.
The mother of our subject died in 1907. She became the wife of James Walker in Ontario,
to which country he had removed from Ireland with his father, James Walker, 8r, James
Walker, Jr,, followed farming throughout his active life and gained a gratifying measure
of success. He was an advocate of reform in politics, and his religious faith was that of the
Presbyterian church. To him and his wife were born eleven children, of whom nine are liv-
ing, the subject of this review being the second in order of birth.
Alexander A. Walker attended the common schools of Ontario and still further pursued
his education in a normal school. Subsequently he prepared for his chosen profession by
study in the Ontario Veterinary College at Toronto, from which he was graduated in 1S82
with the degree of V. S. He had previously practiced as a veterinarian for two months in
Toronto and for some time in Casselton. North Dakota, In 1881 lie returned to Toronto
and completed his professional studies there. He again located in Casselton, where he has
since remained. He has built up a large practice as he has been very successful in his
profession and he has not only gained a high standing as a veterinarian, but has also accu-
mulated a competence. Although he is sixty-nine years of age he is still active and keeps
informed as to the discoveries in veterinary science.
In 1872 Dr. Walker was married, in Ontario, Canada, to Miss Mary Haines, a luitive of
that province, and they had five children: Mary Ann, deceased; Matilda, who is living in the
state of Washington; Isabelle, a resident of Oakland, California; James Alexander, a resi-
dent of Fargo; and Ruth, who is living in the state of Washington. The wife and mother
died in 1890, in the faith of the Baptist churcli, and her demise was deeply regretted bv all
who had come in contact with her. In 1901 Dr. Walker married Miss Jennie Hocking, a
native of Michigan.
The Doctor is a republican and for the past eleven years has served as county justice
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 149
of the peace. He is also police magistrate of Casselton and in both capacities has won an
enviable reputation for fairness and impartiality. Both he and his wife are members of the
Christian churcli, in the work of which they take an active interest. He is identified with
the Yeomen and the Orangemen. He has lived in Casselton for many years and the high
esteem in which he is held is an indication of his genuine worth.
HANS JOHNSON.
Hans Johnson, a hardware merchant of Milnor, was born in Norway in 1874, his parents
being John and Bertha (Larson) Johnson, who were likewise natives of the land of the raid-
night sun. It was in the year 1882 that the father brought his family to the United States
and for a short time they resided in Minnesota, but in 1883 removed to Sargent county,
North Dakota, where he made permanent settlement. TJiere he entered land from the govern-
ment in what is now Shuman township. Tlie entire district was then wild and undeveloped
and he took an active part in promoting the pioneer progress of the locality. He converted
his land into rich and productive fields and remained thereon until his death, which occurred
in 1913. He had for fifteen years survived his wife, who passed away in 1898.
Hans Johnson is the third in order of birth in a family of nine children, all of wliom are
living. He spent the first seven years of his life in his native country and then accompanied
his parents to the new world, after which he pursued his education in the schools of Sargent
county. North Dakota. When his textbooks were put aside he took up the occupation of farm-
ing, working first as a farm hand but later purchasing land as soon as he had saved a sufficient
sum from his earnings to enable him to acquire property. He became the owner of a tract in
Shuman township and there carried on general agricultural pursuits until 1905.
In 1902 Mr. Johnson was married to Miss Bertina Olness, wlio was born in Grant county,
Minnesota, in 1883 a daughter of Anfin and Sarah Olness, who were natives of Norway and
became pioneer residents of Minnesota. There they reared their family of eight children,
including Mrs. Johnson, who was their third child and died in the year 1905, leaving a
daughter, Selma B., who was born in 1904.
The following year Mr. Johnson left the farm and removed to Milnor, where he entered
the hardware business, buj'ing the store of A. H. Anderson and also the stock of H. K.
Pennington, those two liaving conducted business under the firm style of the Milnor Hard-
ware Company. Mr. .Johnson has met with success from the beginning and now has the
leading store of the kind in the town. His business methods are such as will bear the closest
investigation and scrutiny, for at all times he is tlioroughly reliable and progressive and has
won his success through constructive methods.
In his political views Mr. Johnson is a stalwart republican and has held some local offices,
including that of supervisor of Shuman township, Sargent county, while at the present time
he is one of the aldermen of Milnor. He belongs to the Masonic lodge at Milnor and is a
member of the Lutheran church, associations which indicate much of the nature of his
interests and the rules which govern his conduct. His life has ever been guided by high and
lionorable purpose and through his close application to business and unremitting energy lie
has gained a creditable position among the substantial business men of his section of the
state.
HON. J. F. TREAT.
Hon. J. F. Treat, manager at Fargo for the Germania Life Insurance Company, has been
identified with this line of business since 1890 and is today one of the leading figures in
insurance circles in this state, acquainted with every phase of the business and actuated in
all that he does by a spirit of continuous progress. He was born in Geauga county, Ohio,
September 11, 1861, a son of John F. and Ruth A. (Brewer) Treat, the former a native of
Maine and the latter of Ohio. In early manhood John F. Treat adopted the seafaring life
150 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
and during the Civil war commanded the gunboat ^larirron, dying on board that boat in 1863.
His widow long surviving him. passed away in Columbus, Ohio, in 1893.
J. F. Treat was reared at home, acquiring his education in the Grand Eiver Institute
in Austinburg. Ohio, and following the completion of his studies he came to North Dakota in
1883, settling in Barnes county. There he took up a claim and broke prairie, devoting his
attention to farming for five years. On the expiration of that period he engaged in the grain
business and in the sale of farm implements, remaining active along those lines for five years.
His entrance into the field of insurance was made in the year 1890, when he became associ-
ated with the Equitable Life Insurance Company of New York. In 1895 he became a repre-
sentative of the Germania Life Insurance Company, being made manager of this business in
North Dakota. For twenty years he has continued in that business, directing the interests
for the company in this line and his efforts and control liave been important factors in build-
ing up a business of large proportions.
In 1882 Mr. Treat was married to Miss Eva L. Kiser, of Geauga county, Ohio, and to this
marriage have been born a son and a daughter: Walter E., who is associated with his father
in the insurance business; and Frances L.
Mr. Treat is a very prominent Mason, belonging to Shiloh Lodge, No. 1, F. & A. M.;
Keystone Chapter, No. 5, E. A. JI. ; Auvergne Commandery, No. 2, K. T.; Fargo Council, No.
1, R. & S. M.; Dakota Consistory, No. 1, A. & A. S. K.; El Zagal Temple, A. A. O. N. M. S.;
and also St. George's Conclave, No. 6, Red Cross of Constantine at Duluth, Minnesota. For
eleven years he was potentate of El Zagal Temple and in 1902 was also an officer of the
Imperial Council of the Mystic Shrine of North America. In fact he has occupied all of the
chairs of the .Shrine and in 1911 at Rochester, New York, was elected imperial potentate.
He is likewise a member of Fargo Lodge, No. 260, B. P. 0. E. Politically Mr. Treat is a
republican and is now serving as president of the Fargo park commission. In 1905 he became
a member of the state legislature, in which he served for two terms. His interest in public
affairs has always been that of a public-spirited citizen who recognizes the duties as well as
the privileges and opportunities of citizenship. He is actuated in all that he does by a spirit
of progress and the opinion of his fellow citizens establishes him as one of Fargo's leading
residents.
CHARLES HANSON.
Charles Hanson, of Wahpcton. who is making an excellent record as superintendent of
the schools of Richland county, was born in Green county, Wisconsin, on the 24th of May,
1866. His parents, N. T. and Mary Jane (Smith) Hanson, were born respectively in Maine
in 1822 and in Pennsylvania in 1831. The maternal ancestors were members of the Friends'
church. The father came to Wisconsin as a young man- and there his marriage occurred. He
bought land and devoted a number of years to fiirming, after which he went east and at the
time of his demise, in 1890, he was living in Connecticut. His wife preceded him in death,
passing away in 1881. To him and his wife were born seven children: Emma, a resident of
Monroe, Wisconsin; Pauline, who is living in North Dakota; John, a retired farmer residing
in Monroe, Wisconsin; Charles; Ruth, deceased; George, a farmer of North Dakota; and
Edw-ard, a publisher living in Oiicago.
Charles Hanson received his early education in the country schools of Wisconsin and
later entered the high school of Monroe, that state, from which he was graduated in 1889.
After teaching for a time he became a student in the State Normal School at Whitewater,
Wisconsin, completing the course in 1895. He has since engaged in educational work with
the exception of one year, which he spent in the University of Wisconsin, thus fitting himself
for still more efficient work in his chosen profession. In 1903 he came to North Dakota and
for a time he taught near Buffalo, this state, but in 1905 he removed to Richland county,
having been elected principal of the Walcott school, which position he held until 1912. He
proved so efficient in that capacity that in 1914 he was elected county superintendent of
schools and since taking office he has succeeded in advancing the standards of school work
throughout the county. His long experience as an instructor has made him thoroughly
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 151
familiar with the problems that confront the teacher and this knowledge, together with his
resourcefulness, enables him to in most cases find a way out of difliculties. He also has
executive ability and the faculty of securing the cooperation of those under him.
In 1913 Mr. Hanson was united in marriage to Miss Lena Lium, a native of Wisconsin.
She is a communicant of the Lutheran church and he is identified with the Independent Order
of Odd Fellows, the Knights of the Maccabees and the Woodmen. His political allegiance is
given to the democratic party and his election to the ofti<"e of county superintendent is a
tribute to his personal popularity and ability as the county is republican by a large majority.
At a previous election he was a candidate for the office, but was defeated by only forty-four
votes. He has no outside interests, devoting his entire time and attention to the duties of his
office, and the excellent record which he is making is no doubt due in part to this concentra-
tion of his energies.
JULIUS FAUCHALD.
Norway has furnished a substantial percentage of citizens to North Dakota, among
which number is .Julius Fauchald, of Minot, who was born in the land of the midnight sun,
September 12, 1866, a son of Nels and Marie iHovelsen) Fauchald, who were also natives
of the same country, the former born January 9, 1826, and the latter May 16, 1829. The
father was a farmer and land owner in Norway, where he passed away in 1908. his wife
surviving until 1912.
In their family of seven children Julius Fauchald was the sixth in order of birth. From
the age of fifteen years he has depended upon his own resources in a business way, for at
that time lie secured a clerk.ship in a store, in which he was employed for six years, a fact
indicative of his faithfulness and capability. In 1887 he crossed the Atlantic and on the 7th
of April of the following year arrived in Minot, where he entered the employ of Strain
Brothers, spending two years as a clerk in their store. He was afterward employed by
Peter Lee for two years and later purchased Mr. Jacobson's interest in the New York Store,
becoming a partner of G. 0. Frank, after which the business was conducted under the firm
style of Frank & Fauchald, that relationship being maintained for a number of years and the
business proving profitable. In 1901 Mr. Fauchald established a store at White Earth,
seventy-three milos west of Minot, and in 1906 he and his brother Morris purchased the
mercantile establishment of P. P. Lee. In 1903 he bought the interest of Mr. Frank in the
New York Store, which was added to the Lee establishment and Mr. Fauchald became sole
owner of the business in January, 1909. He stills conducts his mercantile interests under
the style of the New York Department Store and has an extensive establishment which is
liberally patronized, for his honorable business methods and his enterprise find favor with
the public. In 1908 he opened the five and ten cent store in the Mansfield building of Minot,
which he also conducts, and he is likewise proprietor of the New York Furniture and Hard-
ware Store. He is thus conducting extensive and important business interests. He has a
good trade in the five and ten cent store and he is enjoying a large patronage in his dry
goods, clothing and men's furnishings store. He recently sold his grocery business at Minot,
which is now being operated by the Shirley Company. From time to time he has extended
his eflTorts into other localities and is now operating a five and ten cent store at Devils Lake.
He also recently sold a store at Jamestown, but is still conducting business in various
other places In fact his name is a very prominent and familiar one in the commercial
circles of the state and he stands as one of North Dakota's foremost merchants. He is
director of the Union National Bank with which he has been identified for a number of
years, and is a director of the Second National Bank of Minot. His business affairs have
been of constantly broadening scope and have been a strong element in the development of
the material resources of North Dakota. He also owns property in Christiania, Norway,
and maintains a summer home in that country which is but thirty minutes' ride from the
city and within a stone's throw of the ocean. His property interests likewise include exten-
sive tracts of land in North Dakota and in Oregon and he maintains his residence in Minot.
In early manhood Mr. Fauchald wedded Miss Enga Nerseth, who was born near his
152 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
own bii'tliplace in Norway, her parents being Johannes and JIaline Xerseth, who spent their
entire lives in tliat country. The father devoted his attention to general agricultural pur-
suits throughout his active business career. Mr. and Mrs. Fauchald are the parents of seven
children, as follows: JIalvin, who is now associated in business with his father; Marie; Kora,
who is pursuing her education in New York city; and Burghild, Jalmer, Axel and Ncls, all
of whom are attending school in New York. Most liberal educational advantages have been
accorded the children, who have received instruction in the schools of this country and of Nor-
way. After a residence of two years in Europe the family returned to New Y'^ork in 1914,
establishing their home at Sunset Park, in Brooklyn, but in 1U16 they expect to remove to
Minot. The elder son was graduated from the Red Wing University and also from Luther
College of Decorah, Iowa, and the elder daughter has attended Red Wing Seminary and is
now in New York City.
In politics Mr. Fauchald is a republican, but has never sought nor desired oflice. He
belongs to tlic Synod church. When he came to the new world he could not speak the Eng-
lish language and his cash capital consisted of but thirty-five cents when he came to Jliniit.
The years have chronicled for him notable success. He possessed energy and determination
and he resolved to win advancement if it could be gained by honorable methods. Step by
step he has progressed until he is today one of the foremost business men and citizens of
North Dakota. While he has attempted important things and has accomplished what he
attempted, his success has never represented another's losses but has resulted from effort
intelligently applied, and the generous use which he has made of his means in assisting others
marks him as a man of kindly spirit who recognizes the obligations and responsibilities of
wealth. In all of his business affairs he has been considerate of others. His has never been
the command of the tyrant to go. but tlie call of the leader to come, and he possesses many
traits admirable and worthy of all praise.
HON. OLE T. TOFSRUD.
Hon. Ole T. Tofsrud has been prominently identified with the interests of North Dakota.
Three times he has been a member of the general assembly, active in framing constructive
legislation, and with commercial and financial interests he has also been jirominently asso-
ciated, being now president of the Security Bank of Rugby. The student of history cannot
carry his investigaticms far into the annals of North Dakota without learning how valuable
has been the contribution of Norwegian citizenship to the upbuilding of the commonwealth.
Mr. Tofsrud is among those who have had their nativity or trace their ancestry to the land
of the midnight sun. He was born in Norway, November 24, 1864, a son of Torgus and
Barbro (Hagen) Tofsrud, who were also natives of that country, whence in the spring of
1883 they sailed for the new world, establishing their home in Portland, North Dakota.
After a year they removed to Church's F'erry in Benson county, where the father filed on a
homestead on which he still resides.
Ole T. Tofsrud pursued his educaticin in tlie public schools of his native laml and after
coming to the United States he served as janitor of a school of Portland and also continued
his studies at the same time. Ambitious to make progress along intellectual lines, he after-
ward matriculated in the seminary at Willmar, Minnesota, and also became a student at the
Bruflat Academy at Portland. He was eighteen years of age when he came to the new
world, his uncle. Tore Peterson, of Portland, sending him sixty-four dollars with which to
pay his passage. This he repaid the first year, earning the money by work as a farm
hand and as a thresher. In 1885, after attaining his majority, he filed on a preemption of
one hundred and sixty acres in Pierce county. He and Torger Gronvold were the first men
to file on land in what is now Barton towiisliip. that county, Mr. Tofsrud securing the
southeast quarter of section 13. He lived upon his claim for three years and two years of
that time there were crop failures. He then went west, securing the position of time-
keeper on the construction of the Great Northern Railway. He was thus employed in con-
nection with the building of the road from the western slope of the Rocky Mountains to
the Columbia river. Later he returned to Pierce, North Dakota, having in the meantime
HON. OLE T. TOFSRUD
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 155
saved from his earnings about a tliousand dollars. He was next employed for a time
as second man in an elevator at Barton and in 1893 the county, appreciative of his worth
and ability, elected him to the office of county treasurer and he removed to Rugby to there
discharge his duties. He had served for only one term when he was nominated and elected
a member of the state legislature and he was reelected in 1895. In 1907 he was once
more chosen for the office, so that his service in the general assembly has covered three
terms. While in that body he very carefully studied the questions which came up for
consideration and gave his support to those bills which he believed would prove efficacious
laws if put upon the statute books of the state. In 1895 he opened a general merchandise
store in Rugby, where he conducted business for eight years, and for the past twenty-five
years he has also been engaged in farming. He owns seven hundred and twenty acres
of land in Pierce county and from his property derives a substantial annual income. In
1909 he became one of the dominant factors in the organization of the Security Bank of
Rugby and was made president of that institution, which position he now fills. He is also
president of the Walhalla Building Association and he is connected with several organiza-
tions of a semi-public character.
In 1898 Mr. Tofsrud was united in marriage to Miss Rodna Hiller of Pierce county,
who is a native of Norway. To them have been born four children, namely: Bertha, Tilda,
Rachael and Lillian. Mr. Tofsrud and his family are members of the Lutheran Free
church and his political allegiance has always been unfalteringly given to the republican
party, for he believes that its principles contain the best elements of good government. He
is now serving as president of the school board of Rugby and as president of the Pierce
County Agricultural Association. He is a member of the Sons of Norway and has always
been willing to do everything in his power to aid his fellow countrymen. He possesses the
characteristic industry, reliability and progressiveness which have ever marked the sons
of Norway and through his determination and force of character he has worked his way
upward from a humble position in the business world to a place of affluence.
ANDREW H. CLEMENSON.
Andrew H. Clemenson, who is successfully engaged in farming on section 35, Warren
township, Cass county, is one of the excellent citizens of North Dakota, who claim Norway
as their native land. He was born on the 18th of September, 1858, and is a son of Henry
and Bertha (Arves) Clemenson, who in 1870 emigrated with their family to the United
States, settling in Faribault, Minnesota, where the father followed his trade, that of shoe-
making, until June, 1871, when the family came to the Red River valley in North Dakota,
being among the first to settle in that region. He located on section 30, Stanley township,
Cass county, on land which he entered as a homestead claim as soon as the homestead law
went into effect. At that time eighty acres was the most which could be taken up as a
homestead but he subsequently filed on a quarter section as a preemption and a number of
years later bought another quarter section, becoming the owner of four hundred acres in all.
The first home of the family in this state was a log cabin, which was covered with a sod
roof, and there were the usual hardships of pioneer life to be endured, but as the years
passed conditions improved and land constantly increased in value. The father died on the
11th of November, 1904, but the mother is still living and makes her home with the subject of
this review.
Andrew H. Clemenson attended the common schools of Norway until he accompanied
his parents on their removal to this country at the age of twelve years and he continued his
education in the public schools of Minnesota and North Dakota. He aided his father in the
arduous task of developing a farm from the wild prairie and in so doing gained much valu-
able knowledge of agricultural methods. In 1883 he purchased eighty acres of land, upon
which he has since resided and upon which he has made many excellent improvements. For
a number of years he cultivated rented land in addition to his own farm and for the past
three years he has divided his attention between the operation of his farm and the opera-
Voi. n— 9
156 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
tion of tlio pumping station south of tlie Noitlu-rn Pacific Railroad at Horace, which is
located within a short distance of hi3 home.
In 1879 occurred the marriage of Mr. Clemonson and Miss Mattie Olson, also a native
of Norway, who came to this country in the sjjring prior to her marriage. To them have
been born eleven children, eight of whom are still living, namely: Martha, the wife of
William Qualloy, a farmer of Manitoba, Canada; Olga, who married Harry Christcnson, of
Horace. North Dakota; Betsy, the wife of August Halvorson, a railroad man living in Gantz.
^[innesota ; Bertha, at home; Samuel, who is engaged in farming; Mary, who is teaching in
Billiold, North Dakota; Oscar, an employe of the Northern I'acilic Railroad; and -Arthur, at
home.
Mr. Clemenson gives his political allegiance to the republican party and for twelve years
served as road overseer and for twenty-one years as a member of the school board, his long
retention in those offices being evidence of the ability which he displayed in the discharge
of his duties. He belongs to the Jungraan Lodge and has many friends both within and
without that organization as he is thoroughly reliable in all the relations of life and as his
personal qualities are agreeable.
THEODORE KALDOR.
Theodore Kaldor, of Hillsboro, a prominent representative of the legal profession in
Traill county, where he has practiced continuously since admitted to the bar in 1901. His
ability is evidenced by the large clientage accorded him. Moreover, his life record stands
in contradistinction to the old adage that a prophet is not without honor save in his own
country, for Mr. Kaldor is a native of Traill county, his birth having occurred on his father's
farm in Norway township. August 8. 1875. His parents, Cliristian 0. and Ragnhild Kaldor.
were both natives of Oier, Gudbrandsdal, Norway, and both came to the United States in
1868. They were married in Freeborn county, Minnesota, where the father followed farm-
ing for two years, and on the 22d of June, 1871, came to Traill county, where he was among
the first to take up a homestead. He continued to reside thereon, his attention being
given to its further development and improvement imtil his death, which occurred in 1909.
His widow still resides upon that place.
After mastering the branches of learning taught in the common schools Theodore
Kaldor attended Concordia College at Moorliead, Minnesota, and in 1896 was graduated
from the Mayville State Normal School. He continued his education at the University of
Minnesota, where he completed a course in the law department with the class of 1901. at
which time the EL. B. degree was conferred upon him. During vacation periods up to that
time he had worked upon his father's farm and in outdoor life gained that vigor and
strength which has constituted a basic element of his professional success. After thorough
training for the bar he at once opened an office in Hillsboro. where he has since reniaineil.
and while advancement at the bar is jiroverbially slow, he has nevertheless made steady
progress and his ability has gained him distinction, for in the trial of various important
cases he has given proof of his rcsourcefulni^ss, his comprehensive knowledge of the law and
his ready and almost intuitive understanding of the workings of justice. Aside from his
law practice he is interested in farming and banking, being connected with two banks and
owning eight hundred acres of farm lands in this state. mo.st of which is near his home
town.
On the 27th of June, 1905. Mr. Kaldor was united in marriage to Miss Nettie Lar.son.
a daughter of Necoli and Christine Larson, pioneer settlers of Traill county. Mr. and ]\Irs.
Kaldor are the parents of two children. Cliaunoey Theodore and Harvey Nathaniel, aged
respectively seven and five years.
Mr. Kaldor and his wife are members of the Lutheran church and he is identified with
the Masonic fraternity and the Sons of Norway. In politics he has always been a republican
and on various occasions his fellow citizens have manifested their confidence in his trust-
worthiness and ability by electing him to public office. For six years, from 1904 until
1910, he was states attorney of Traill county, and during the past five years he has been a
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 157
member of the board of education of Hillsboro and has also been a member of the board of
park commissioners since the creation of the park district four years ago, being president
of the park board during the last two years. He was likewise city attorney for two years.
Jlr. Kaldor labors earnestly and effectively as an official and as a private citizen to further
the best interests of the community in which he resides.
LOUIS FLIGEL5IAN.
Louis Fligelman, the popular and able mayor of Wahpeton and also a well known
dealer in farm lands, was born in Berlad, Roumania, on the 10th of May, 1869. His parents,
Joseph and Theresa (Epstien) Fligelman, were lifelong residents of that country. The
father, who was engaged in the leather business, was very successful, gaining financial
independence. He was a member of the Jewish Synagogue. There were seven children in
the family, namely: John, a merchant of Minneapolis; Herman, who is engaged in the dry
goods business in Helena, Montana; Jacob, also a merchant of Helena; Fred A., a merchant
of Great Falls, Montana; Louis; Jessie, the wife of David Fichman, a traveling man of
New York city; and Dora, Avho married S. S. Singer, a merchant of Great Falls, Montana.
Louis Fligelman received his education in the schools of his native land but in 18S5
came to Minneapolis with his brothers and sisters when they emigrated to the TJnited
States. In 1889 he removed to Wahpeton, Korth Dakota, and engaged in the land business,
along which line he has gained enviable prosperity. He buys and sells land outright and has
handled many valuable tracts, owning at the present time a large amount of land in Rich-
land county. He also deals in loans and his natural business acumen and good judgment,
combined with his thorough knowledge of business conditions, has made him one of the suc-
cessful men of his city.
In 1895 occurred the marriage of Jlr. Fligelman and Miss Helena Bessie, a daughter of
Adolph Bessie and a native of New York city. Mr. and Mrs. Fligelman have become the
parents of three daughters, Rosa, Henrietta and Jessica, all of whom are now attending
school.
Mr. Fligelman is an adherent of the democratic party where national issues are at
stake but at local elections is independent. In 1913 he was elected mayor as the choice of
the people rather than as the candidate of any particular party and he has since held the
office of chief executive of Wahpeton. He gives the same careful study and thought to the
solution of the problems that come up in connection with the administration of the city's
business that he gives to the management of his private affairs and his course in office has
won the commendation of his fellow citizens. Fraternally he is a member of the Masonic
order, the beneficent principles of which guide his life. He is held in the highest esteem and
his personal friends are many.
CHRISTIAN A. SUNDET.
Christian A. Sundet devotes his time and attention to the operation of his excellent
farm of two hundred and forty acres in Pleasant township, Cass county. His birth occurred
in Norway on the 14th of Jul}', 1855, and he is a son of Asle and Ora Sundet, also natives
of that country. About 1855 they removed with their family to the United States and,
making their way to the middle west, located in Houston county, Minnesota, where the
father engaged in farming until his demise. The mother also died there. They were the
parents of eight children, all of whom are living save one.
Christian A. Sundet attended the common schools of Minnesota and during the period of
his boyhood and youth also devoted much time to helping his father. By the time he had
reached man's estate he was well qualified to engage in farming independently and following
his marriage in 1879 he removed to Cass county, North Dakota, and located on his present
farm on section 26, Pleasant township. The place was unimproved when it came into his
158 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
possession and his first home was a small shanty. As the years have passed he has erected
fine buildings, has fenced his land and has brouglit it to a high state of cultivation, and he
also lias a grove which he planted and which is now an excellent windbreak. As he is
industrious and also plans his work well he receives a gratifying financial return from his
land and his capital is constantly increasing.
In 1879 occurred the marriage of Mr. Sundct and Miss Kathcrine Katin, who was also
born in Norway and is a daughter of S. and .Martha Ratin, likewise natives of that country,
who, however, emigrated to America with their family many years ago and resided here
until called to their final rest. Mr. and Mrs. Sundet have eight children: Mary, the wife
of Oscar Eude and a resident of Richland county. North Dakota; Sophia, who married
Gilmore Dockan. of Benson county; Cornelia, the wife of Henry Johnston; Albert, who
lives in Perley, Minnesota; Grant, at home; Alida, who is a graduate of the Park Region
Lutheran College at Fergus Falls, Jlinnesota, and who is engaged in teaching; Viola, who
is attending college; and Nina, at home.
Mr. .Sundet votes the republican ticket and for a number of years served in the office
of school director. Both he and his wife hold membership in the Lutheran church and take
an active and helpful interest in its work. When he came to North Dakota he was without
capital but he took advantage of the opportunities offered and persevered in spite of the
difficulties incident to the settlement of a new country and is now reaping the reward of
his labor and determination as he is one of the substantial men of his township.
KARL H. THOMTE.
Karl H. Thomte. a well known representative of mercantile interests in Lisbon, where
he is conducting business as a dealer in men's clothing and furnishings, was born in Lansing,
Iowa, September 25, 1875, a son of Hans and Kerrie (Hanson) Thomte, both of whom were
natives of Norway, whence they emigrated to the United States in the latter part of the
'608. They first settled in Iowa but afterward homesteaded in southern Minnesota in 1878,
becoming pioneer settlers of that state and experiencing all of the hardships and privations
incident to life on the frontier. The father was a tailor by trade and worked along that
line in a little Minnesota town while his wife and children occupied and developed the home-
stead. Her death occurred in the spring of 1S97 but Mr. Thomte is still living. They were
the parents of ten children, of whom nine survive. The father is a republican in his political
views and in fraternal circles is well known as a Knight Templar.
Karl H. Thomte pursued his education in the schools of Luverne, Minnesota. He then
went abroad, visiting various European points, and following his return in 1902 he and his
brother, .John Thomte, on the 2d of November of that year purchased the established busi-
ness of Sandagcr & Haugen, clothing merchants and pioneer business men of Lisbon. The
store has since been conducted under the name of Thomte Brothers and they carry a large
and complete line of men's and boys' clothing and furnishings. Their stock is attractive,
ranging from low to high priced goods, and shows all that the market affords in style and
workmanship. Karl Thomte is also interested in farming, having purchased seventy acres
of land at Island Park, Ransom county, which he intends to devote to dairying and to the
raising of chickens. His is a busy and useful life fraught with good results. He has other
interests, being a director of the Lisbon Building & Loan Association and one of the pro-
moters of the Sheyenne Valley Canning Company of Lisbon.
On the 20th of June, 1904, Jlr. Thomte was married to Miss Minnie Backlund, who was
born in Lisbon, North Dakota, December 6, 1884, a daughter of Xels and Louise (Anderson)
Backlund, both of whom were natives of Sweden, but became residents of Lisbon in the early
'70s. Mr. and Mrs. Thomte have a family of four children: Luvern, wlio died in childhood;
Karl, born February 28, 1909; Philip, September 5, 1910; and Mary Louise, August 9, 1915.
In his political views Mr. Thomte is an earnest republican and from 1912 until 1914
served as a member of the city council of Lisbon. In May of the latter year he was elected
mayor of the city and when in office his energies were directed to beautifying and improving
Lisbon and its roads. He held the ofllice for two years, refusing to become a candidate for a
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 159
second term as he felt that his entire time and attention were needed in connection with
his growing and important business affairs. He was also president of the Lisbon Commercial
Club during the years 1912 and 1914. He has taken a most active and helpful interest in
every plan and project for the improvement and benefit of the city and was the promoter of the
Ransom County Commercial Carnival, which was held in Lisbon in 1911, 1912 and 1913 and
did much toward aiding in developing this section of the state. Fraternally Mr. Thomte is
connected with the Masons as a member of lodge, chapter and commandery and he has
filled all of the ofTices in the last two branches. He is a member and receiver of the Ancient
Order of United Workmen at Lisbon and is a member and trustee of the Presbyterian church,
to which his wife and two oldest children also belong. He stands for those things which
are most worth while for the individual and for the community and his influence is always
given for the advancement of the material, intellectual, social, political and moral progress
of his city.
CHARLES A. GROW.
Charles A. Grow has assisted in every public enterprise for the upbuilding of Minot
during the years of his residence there. He was impressed with the city and its opportunities
upon his first visit to Minot m 1890 and following his return to become a permanent resident
he has borne active part in its development and improvement. A native of Pennsylvania,
he was born in Lewistown, November 2, 1867, a son of William and Sarah (Willhide) Grow,
both of whom were also natives of Lewistown. The father was a farmer by occupation and
in 1869 removed with his family to Ohio, where he became a landowner and carried on agri-
cultural pursuits for a number of years. He is now living retired in Cleveland. He served
as a soldier of the Civil war in a Pennsylvania regiment, enlisting in 1863 and continuing at
the front until the close of hostilities. In tracing the ancestral history of the family it is
found that they are of German lineage and that the family was founded in America in the
seventeenth century.
Charles A. Grow, who was the second in order of birth in a family of eight children,
seven of whom are now living, attended school at Youngstown, Ohio, and pursued a three
years' course in a business college there. At the age of fourteen years he began earning his
living and gradually worked his way upward in business circles until at the age of sixteen
years he was made manager of a clothing store in East Liverpool, Ohio, where he remained
for three years. He then went to Cleveland and was employed by the J. L. Hudson Clothing
Company for about two years. Later he went to Chicago and occupied a position in a cloth-
ing store of that city for a year. In September, 1889. he arrived in North Dakota and
accepted a position with the Apple Clothing Company at Grand Forks, acting as manager
there until 1899, and in the meantime acquiring an interest in the business. He then sold
out and in 1900 established a clothing store at Cando, North Dakota, where he remained
for two and one-half years. In the spring of 1903 he arrived in Minot, where he opened a
clothing store, dealing in men's and boys' furnishing goods. For thirty-three years he has
continuously engaged in this line of business, selling out in February, 1916, to M. G. Olson
& Company, of Grand Forks. He carried a full stock of boys' and men's clothing and
shoes and his well appointed store secured for him a liberal patronage because of his hon-
orable business methods and wise management. He is a stockholder in various other busi-
ness enterprises of Minot and is the owner of city property and lands in Ward county.
He operates a portion of his land himself and rents the remainder, some of which pays him
a dividend of twenty dollars, basing the land upon a value of one hundred dollars per acre.
In former j-ears the greater part of his attention was given to the clothing business and
he ranked with the foremost merchants of the city but he is now giving his entire time
to his real estate operations. His present success places him in a position far removed from
that in which he was found in his boyhood days when as a lad of nine years he was selling
newspapers in order to provide for his own support. Not only has he advanced materially
along business lines but has also assisted in caring for his parents. There were six children
younger than himself in the family and because of straitened financial conditions it was
160 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
necessary that he early start out to earn his own living. Laudable ambition has prompted
him at every step in liis career and gradually he has worked his way upward.
On the 25th of November, 1896, Mr. Grow was united in marriage to Miss Anna
Sullivan, a native of Fargo, North Dakota, and a daughter of Timothy and Katharine
Sullivan, both of whom were born in Ii eland. Emigrating to the United States, they took
up tlicir abode among the pioneer settlers of North Dakota and Mr. Sullivan assisted in the
construction of the Northern Pacific Railroad from Fargo to Bismarck. Subsequently he
removed to Jliiuiesota and turned his attention to agricultural pursuits, being now a land-
owner and farmer of Wildrose, this state.
Fraternally Mr. Grow is connected with the Knights of Pythias at Miimt. also the
Masonic lodge and the Elks lodge at Minot, in which he has passed through all of tlie
chairs. In 191.5 he was a delegate to the grand lodge of Elks at Los Angeles. He has also
been prominent in the Knights of Pythias and was grand chancellor of the domain of North
Dakota for the years 1905 and 1906. He organized the old Commercial Club and at all
times he has been actively and helpfully interested in every movement for the public
good. His political allegiance is given to the republican party and he has done much to mold
political action in this community. He served as a member of the city council of Minot and
in 1915 was representative of the twentj'-ninth legislative district in the general assembly
in the fourteenth session. He also served with the rank of colonel on the staff of Governor
Sarles in 1906 and he is now president of the board of highway commissioners through
appointment of Governor Hanna. His opinions have long carried weight in the councils of
his party and it is a recognized fact that he is a most public-spirited citizen, his eflorts
being a potent force in advancing the general welfare and in promoting movements which
have had direct bearing upon the public good. On the whole, his is a notable and most
creditable record. He has succeeded where thousands of others would have failed, for he
lias faced diflicult conditions. He has never had anyone to confer with, obtained his edu-
cation largely by attending night school while working in the daytime and by using every
opportunity has gradually progressed. When employed as clerk, many times he had to
work until three o'clock in the morning, putting the stock in order and also trimming win-
dows at night. He possesses in marked degree the commercial sense, seeming especially
fitted for business of this character. Moreover, he carries forward to successful completion
whatever he undertakes and in his vocabulary there is no such word as fail. When lie sets
out toward a goal he reaches it, and as the years have gone on his powers have grown
througli the exercise of effort, each day finding him able to cope with more intricate
business problems and accomplish greater results.
ANDREW QUINNILD.
Andrew Quinnild, who was a .successful and well liked farmer residing in Pleasant town-
ship, Cass county, passed away on June 17, 1901. He was born on the 22d of November, 1847.
of the marriage of Peter and Betsy Quinnild, natives of Norway, who spent their entire lives
in that eoiintiy. Our subject was reared and educated in his native land and remained there
until ho was about twenty-four years of age. In 1871 he emigrated to the United States and
settled in Minnesota, whence in 1875 he came to North Dakota. He took up a homestead on
section 34, Pleasant township, Cass county, and at once began to break the prairie sod and
improve his farm. The first building which he erected was a log cabin with a roof covered with
fir branches. For a number of years this remained the family residence, but at length he had
acquired sufficient means to enable him to erect a fine frame dwelling and he also put up
excellent barns and outbuildings. His place comjirised two hundred and forty acres and as he
brought his land to a high state of cultivation and was both energetic and practical in the
operation of the farm he gained more than a competence.
Mr. Quinnild was married in ^linnesota to Miss Helen Olson, likewise a native of Norway,
who came to the United States in 1857. They became the parents of twelve children, namely:
Peter, deceased; Die, who is living in Hickson, North Dakota; Gustave and Bertha, both
deceased; Gustave, second of the name, who is now living in Minnesota; Hannah and Peter,
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 161
deceased; Helen and Peter, botli at home; Henry, who is operating the homestead; and Betsy
and Alvin, at home.
ilr. Quinnild supported the republican party after becoming a naturalized citizen of the
United States, but never sought public oiBce. He was a communicant of the Lutheran church,
as is his wife, and the sincerity of his faith was manifest in the integrity of his daily life.
His sterling qualities commended him to the esteem and warm regard of his fellowmen and
there was much sincere grief when he was called from this life. His widow survives and
resides on the homestead of one hundred and sixty acres, which she owns. She is well known
and has many warm friends.
L. J. JOHNSON.
AS the raising of grain is the most important industry in North Dakota the elevators
of the district are among the chief factors in its development and their annual business is
of large volume. The Farmers elevator at Horace is one of the leading business undertak-
ings of that town and its manager, L. J. Johnson, is recognized as a man of energy, initiative
and sound judgment. He was born in Sweden on the 25th of March, 1864. and is a son of
John and Mary (Larson) Johnson, the latter of whom died in that country. In 1883 the
father came to the United States with two of his children and a year later our subject and
a brother and sister joined the others of the family here. The father took up his residence
in Grant county, Minnesota, where he lived until his deatli.
L. J. Johnson came to North Dakota on his arrival in this country in 1883 and located at
Horace, where an uncle, P. J. Frykland, was living. At that time Mr. .Johnson was in such
straitened financial circumstances that he had to borrow ten cents from his uncle to buy
paper and stamps in order to write home and he W'as in debt sixty-eight dollars for his
passage mone}^. He found work as a farm hand as soon as possible and after discharging
his obligations began saving his money with the end in view of eventually purchasing land.
For a number of years he farmed as a renter, but about 1905 he bought two hundred and
iifty acres on sections 17 and 18, Stanley township, adjoining Horace, and has since resided
upon his farm, which is all under cultivation. In addition to his activity as an agriculturist
he has been engaged in buying grain for twenty-two years, devoting a great deal of his time
to that work. He represented the Andrews Grain Company of Minneapolis at Horace for
twenty years, while since 1914 he has been manager of the Farmers Elevator Company, which
bought out the interests of the ilinneapolis company at Horace. He understands the grain
business thoroughly and as he keeps a close watch on all of the details of the business the
enterprise has proved very successful.
In 1893 Mr. Johnson was married to Miss Bertha Olson, a native of Houston county,
Minnesota, by whom he has six children, Ethel, Martha, Walter, Elder, Lillian and Raymond,
all at home.
The political views of Mr. Johnson coincide with the principles of the republican party,
which he supports at the polls, and for fifteen years he has served as township clerk and for
many years as school treasurer, proving vei'y efficient in those capacities. He and his family
hold membership in the Norwegian Lutheran church and seek to extend its influence in
every way possible. Mr. .Johnson is not only a successful farmer and business man, but is
also a public-spirited citizen and in all relations of life has proved upright and honorable,
thus gaining the sincere respect of all who have come in contact with him.
GILBERT J. JOHNSON.
Gilbert J. .Johnson, one of the extensive real estate dealers of Wahpeton, Richland county,
was born in Bristol, England, on the 8th of .July, 1875, a son of David and Caroline E.
(Brain) .Johnson, both likewise natives of that city, the former born in 1841 and the latter
in 1843. They were married there and continued to reside in England until 1881, when with
162 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
their family, they came to the United States. The father, who was a decorator, followed
his trade for many years and for ten years resided in Wahpeton. He is now living retired
in St. Louis. His political allegiance is given to the republican party and he is now a mem-
ber of the Episcopal church, althougli while living in England he was for some time a
preacher in the Wesloyan Methodist church.
Gilbert J. Johnson received his education in Birmingham, Alabama, and in AVahpcton,
North Dakota, and after leaving school engaged in farming for some time, taking up a
homestead in Richland county. He was later engaged in the hardware business at auistine
and Wahpeton, continuing along that line until 1905, when he turned his attention to the
real estate business, in which field he is still active. He buys and sells outright and has
handled a great deal of valuable farm land. He owns large tracts of land in Richland county
and also holds title to several thousand acres of Minnesota land. In addition to his real
estate operations he is a director in the National Bank of Wahpeton and is interested
financially in several other banks and in other business enterprises. Since completing his
education he has been dependent upon his ow^n resources and tlic enviable measure of success
which he has gained is proof of his aggressiveness and his sound judgment.
On the 6th of April, 1904, occurred the marriage of Mr. Johnson and Miss Emma E.
Clemmons of Barron, Wisconsin, and a daughter of A. N. Clemmons, an early veterinarian
of that town. Three children have been born to this union: Donald, Fred and Arthur, aged
respectively ten, eight, and three years.
Mr. Johnson is an adherent of the republican paity and takes the interest of a good
citizen in public atfairs. althought not an ofiice seeker. He is well known fraternally, belong-
ing to the Masonic blue lodge, the Royal Arch Chapter, the Knights Templar Commandery
and the Shrine. He is recognized as an able and reliable business man luid his personal
qualities are such that he has won the warm regard of many.
GILBERT H. CLEMENSON.
Gilbert H. Clemenson, who owns an excolhnt farm on section 30, Stanley township,
Cass county, has resided in that county since pioneer times and has not only Avitnessed, but
has been a factor in the development of the district. His birth occurred in Norway on the
2Gth of May, 1868, but when he was a little more than a year old he was brought by his
parents, Henry and Bertha (Arvcs) Clemenson. to the United States, the family home being
established in Faribault, Minnesota. The father, ^vho was a shoemaker, followed his trade
there for one year, but in 1870 made his way to Cass county. North Dakota, and located on
land now comprised in our subject's farm. He took it up on a squatter's- right, but in 1873,
after the homestead law went into effect, filed on it as a homestead. Almost immediately
after his arrival in Cass county he erected a log cabin, carrying the logs on his shoulder from
the timber where they were cut to the cabin site. In 1871 his family joined him in this
state and he continued to reside on his farm until his demise in 1904. While living in Nor-
way he served in the army for fifteen or twenty years. His wife is still living and resides
with her son Andrew.
Gilbert H. Clemenson received his education in the pioneer schools of Cass county and as,
like everything else in the state, the school system was in the early stages of development,
his education was necessarily limited. Through assisting his father in transforming the
wild prairie into a cultivated and well improved farm he not only learned much concerning
agricultural methods, but also gained valuable training in industry and in the determination
that surmounts all obstacles. In 1891 he began farming for himself, buying one hundred
and si.\ty acres on time from Addison Leech. During the following three years, however, the
crops throughout his part of the state were failures and as he was unable to make the pay-
ments on his land he sold his tract and for the next three years rented the home farm. In
1896 he purchased that place, which comprises two hundred and forty-three acres and which
is one of the most valuable farms of the county. He keeps everything in excellent condition
and as he uses up-to-date methods and employs modern machinery in his i work, his labors
are rewarded by excellent crops which seldom fail to bring a high price upon the market.
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 163
He also owns stock in the Farmers elevator at Horace and is one oi' the substantial men of
his township.
In 1891 Jlr. Clemenson was united in marriage to Miss Augusta Hermanson, a native of
Sweden, and they have become the parents of twelve children, seven of whom survive, as
follows: Adolph; Robert, who married Ella Johnson; Mabel, the wife of Alfred Johnson,
who is a brother of Ella Johnson and is farming in Stanley township; Agnes; Lillian; Hed-
weg; and Florence. All of the children save Mabel are at home.
The family belong to the Norwegian Lutheran church and conform their lives to its
teachings. Mr. Clemenson is a republican in politics, but has been too busy with his private
interests to take an active part in public affairs. He is widely known throughout the county
and liis personal characteristics are such that his circle of friends is practically coextensive
with his circle of acquaintances.
JESSE D. VAN FLEET.
Jesse D. Van Fleet, a resident of Minot, is engaged in the undertaking business. He
was born in Wayne county, New York, April 6, 1858, a son of Peter B. and Rachel M. (Devoe)
Van Fleet, who were also natives of "Wayne county, New York, The father was a contractor
and builder who died about 1910, when eighty-two years of age. His wife passed away in
1907, when about seventy-eight 3'ears of age. Their family numbered five children, of whom
Jesse D. was the third in order of birth. Having acquired a high school education at Fair
Haven, New York, he attended the seminary at Red Creek, New Y'ork, but left school at the
age of seventeen years and obtained employment in a sash and door factory, spending about
four years in thoroughly learning and mastering the business. Later he was emploj-ed for
about two years in a store and then went to Portland, Oregon. He became foreman in a
large sash and door factory in that city, where he remained for three years, after which he
returned to New York and purchased an interest in the store in which he had previously been
employed, spending three years in that connection. He next went to St. Paul, Minnesota,
where he purchased an interest in the Jackson Street Fish Company, continuing in the busi-
ness for three years.
It was then that Mr. Van Fleet came to North Dakota, making his way to Larimore,
where for ten years he was in the employ of Warner & Stoltz, lumber merchants. He
then engaged in the lumber and fuel business in Larimore and also conducted an under-
taking establishment. Later lie turned his attention to the real estate business, in which he
remained until his removal to Minot in 1908. For three years, or until April, 1911, he con-
ducted a real estate office in Minot and then purchased the C. J. Wegan undertaking busi-
ness, which he has carried on successfully since. He also ow-ns a fine farm of five hundred
acres at Larimore and its rental brings to him a substantial income. He is likewise a stock-
holder in the Thompson Malted Food Company at Waukesha, Wisconsin, but devotes the
greater part of his time to his undertaking business and to care of his lands. He is a mem-
ber of the Undertakers' Association of North Dakota and is now serving a second term as
vice president of the state board of embalmers, having been appointed by Governor Hanna,
July 10, 1916, for a second four years term.
In 1878 Mr. Van Fleet married Miss Jennie Case, who was born near Auburn, Caj'uga
county. New York. Their children were: Ralph, who was born in 1887 and died at Larimore,
North Dakota, in 1895; Frank, who is assistant cashier of the National Bank of Larimore;
Clifford, who died in 1883, at the age of fourteen months, while the family were living at
Portland, Oregon; Kitty, the wife of A. F. McLean, general agent in North Dakota for the
National Life Insurance Company and a resident of Minot; and Peter B., who died in 1907 at
the age of seventeen years. The wife and mother passed away April 21, 1892, and on the
38th day of June, 1894, Mr. Van Fleet wedded Mrs. John Stevens, who was born at Chatfield,
Minnesota, and became one .of the early residents of North Dakota. She was the widow of
John Stevens, by whom she had a son, J. Floyd, who was educated at Cornell University and
is now a professor in the State University at Grand Forks.
Mr. Van Fleet holds membership in the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, in which he
164 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
lias passed tlirough all the chairs. His political faith is that of the progressive republicans.
He takes a most active part in the work of the Presbyterian church, in which he has served
as an elder for a quarter of a century. For a number of years he has been at the head of
the home missionary department of his church and is looking after the funds coming to the
board for supplying new churches. In fact he takes a most deep interest in all dei)artments
of the church work and docs everything in his power to further moral progress. He has
always felt with Lincoln that "there is something better than making a living — making a
life."
NILS 0. BRAKKE.
Among the e-xcellent citizens whom Norway has given to North Dakota is Nils O.
Brakke, one of the extensive landowners of Normanna township, Cass county. He has not
only been prominent in the agricultural development of his county, but has also been active
in public affairs, having served acceptably as a member of the state legislature. His birth
occurred on the 12tli of September, 1845, and his parents were Ole N. and Berget S. (Swen-
son) Brakke, both of whom were also natives of Norway, where their entire lives were spent.
Six of the eight children born to their union are still living.
Nils 0. Brakke was reared at home and received his education in the public schools of
his native land. In 1869, when about twenty-four years of age, he determined to try his
fortune in the United States and became a resident of Houston county, Minnesota. After
working as a farm hand there for three years he removed to Cass county, North Dakota, in
1873 and located upon his present home farm on section 26, Normanna township. From time
to time he has invested in more land and now holds title to nine hundred acres, all of wliich
is well improved and productive. Although he is now one of the wealthy men of his section
of the state he was without capital when he came to this country and for several years had
to practice close economy. His first home in North Dakota was a log cabin, and he resided
therein until 1906, when he erected a fine modern residence. He gives careful attention to
the management of his extensive farming interes-ts and receives a handsome financial return
from his land. He also owns stock in the Farmers elevator at Kindred, of which he is a
director.
In 1809 Mr. Brakke was married in jMinnesota to Miss Liv Olson, who was also born in
Norway and who crossed to the I'nitcd States on the same ship as her future husband. They
have eight children, Bergert, Olaf, Olena, Oscar. Carrie, Engebert, Nels and Selma.
Mr. Brakke is a stanch adherent of the rei)ublican party, in whose principles he lirinly
believes, and he was elected as a state representative in 190S on that ticket. He is especially
interested in the welfare of the public schools and for thirty years has been a member of
the school board, doing much in that time to promote educational jirogress in the county.
Both he and his wife are communicants of the Ijutheran church, the teachings of which govern
their conduct in all relations of life. He has a wide acquaintanceship throughout his section
of the state and is recognized as a leading citizen of his countv.
GEORGE D. WOOD.
George D. Wood is agent for the Minnesota. St. Paul & Sault Ste. JIarie Railroad at
Burlington and is making a creditable record in that connection, gaining the commendation
of his superiors because of his edicient discharge of his duties. He was born in Egg Harbor,
Wisconsin, April 2.5, 1886, a son of Joseph and Anna (Phillips) Wood, the former born in
Buckinghamshire, England, and the latter in New York state. The father emigrated to the
United States in young manhood and eventually removed to Rapid River, Jliehigan. where
the mother died in 1908. He passed away in Biirlington in 1912 and both are buried at
Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin.
George D. Wood, who is an only child, attended school at Rapid River, Michigan, com-
pleting the high school course. He remaineil at home until 1004. when he entered the employ
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 165
of the Soo Line at Rapid River as assistant agent, in which capacity he continued for a year.
He then learned telegraphy and in 1905 accepted a position as operator at Courtenay, North
Dakota, where he remained until 1906, when he was made agent at Ambrose, this state. At
the end of eight months he was transferred to Lintonville, Minnesota, as relief agent and
two months later was stationed at Watkins, that state, where he remained for a year. At
the end of that time in 1908 he was made agent at Burlington and has since held that posi-
tion. He is always courteous in his dealings with the patrons of the road and manages wisely
the interests intrusted to him.
• On the 7th of January, 1908, Mr. Wood was married to Miss Louise Greenwood, who
was born in Minnesota, of the marriage of Frank and Roselina (Carroll) Greenwood, both
natives of Missouri. The father removed with his family to Watkins, Minnesota, where he
engaged in farming for a number of years. He was also city marshal and was well known
and highly esteemed in tlie community. He is now residing in Harvey, North Dakota, and
is in the employ of the Soo Line. Mr. and Mrs. Wood have three children: Joseph Harland,
four years of age; George Frank; and JIarian.'
Mr. Wood gives his political allegiance to the republican party, but has never sought
office, his railroad duties having required his undivided time and attention. The principles
which guide his life are found in the teachings of the Congregational church, to which he
belongs, and his fraternal connection is with the Order of Railroad Telegraphers. His life
has been one of continued and useful activity and his enterprise and good judgment insure
still greater success in the future.
HARRY STEPHEN OLIVER.
On the list of Lisbon's honored dead appears the name of Harry Stephen Oliver, who
was born at Mayville. New York, July 37, 1855, and died May 20, 1909. In the early 'SOs
he had removed to Ransom county, becoming a resident of Lisbon and a farmer on the
fertile prairies of that district. His intense activity and his inborn love of labor soon made
him a foremost promoter of the development and improvement of the county and his fellow
townsmen, appreciating his worth and ability, conferred upon him various honors which he
well merited and which he wore with becoming modesty. He was elected a member of the
territorial legislature of Dakota as well as of the state legislature following the division and
he wielded a powerful influence in the politics of the fourth judicial district. In 1897 he was
appointed postmaster of Lisbon and made a creditable record in that position. He was an
active leader in civic afl'airs and at all times stood for those things which are a matter of
civic virtue and civic pride. For a considerable period he served on the board of education
and instituted various progressive movements and reforms along educational and other lines.
He was also a member and president of the Oakwood Cemetery Association and did much to
beautify and adorn the city of the dead. Every phase of his character served to establish
him in high regard and endear him to those with whom he was closely associated.
On the 25th of .June, 1879, Mr. Oliver was married to Miss Florence Waterhouse, who
was born at Exeter, Maine, January 24, 1856, a daughter of Dr. A. and Sarah (Alden) Water-
house, both of whom were born and reared in Maine. In 1859 they removed with their
family to Portland, Maine, where the father engaged in the active practice of his profession
until the outbreak of the Civil war, when he became chief surgeon with the division under
General George H. Thomas and remained in that connection until the close of hostilities.
When the war ended he went to Jamestown, New York, where he continued in the active
practice of medicine until his death, which occurred January 3, 1893. His wife. Mrs. Sarah
(Alden) Waterhouse, was a descendant of the famous John Alden who figured so prominently
in the early history of Massachusetts. She died .June 17, 1889. In their family of three
children Sirs. Oliver was the second and by her marriage she became the mother of three
children: Katherine, who was born April 7, 1881, and died in 1883; Frederick A., who was
born November 13, 1884, and is a graduate of the Dakota State College, now practicing law
at Lisbon and living with his mother; and Harry W., who was born May 24, 1886. He was
166 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
graduated June 7, 1915, from the George Washington University of Washington, D. C, with
the M. D. degree and died in January, 1916.
It was on the 20th of May, 1909, in Lisbon, that the husband and father, ILarry S.
Oliver, passed away and in his death Lisbon lost one of its most vaUied citizens, liis associ-
ates a faithful friend and his family a devoted husband and father. He was of a genial and
joyous nature, being loved by all who came in contact with him. and his memory is enshrined
in the hearts of all who knew him. He enjoyed in fullest measure the confidence and love
of his JIasonic brethren. He was made a Jlason in Mount Moriah Lodge of Jamestown,
New York, September 15, 1876, and became a charter member of Sheyenne Valley lodge of
Lisbon. He was exalted in Valley Point Chapter, R. A. M., at Cuba, New York, becoming a
charter member of the Lisbon chapter and its high priest in 1894. He was knighted in St.
Elmo Commandery at Valley City, North Dakota, and became a charter member of Ivanhoe
Commandery, K. T., of Lisbon, of which he was eminent commander for five years. He was
also eminent grand commander of North Dakota during 1906. He was an early member of
the Lisbon Lodge of Perfection, A. & A. S. R.. which found in him an active worker, and in
1898 he became a member of the Mystic Shrine at Fargo. He also belonged to the Ancient
Order of United Workmen and the Modern Woodmen of America and in the latter was one
of the most prominent of the state oflicers and also a member of the sovereign body, while
of the insurance commission of that order he was a member. His nature was largely
expressed in his love of dumb animals and of flowers. Strong and forceful, he was at the
same time gentle, courteous and kindly, and the beauty and simplicity of his daily life won
for him the high honor and lasting regard of all.
Mrs. Oliver still makes her home in Lisbon and, like her husband, has exerted a widely
felt influence over public thought and action. She was state president of the Woman's Fed-
eration of Clubs from 1902 until 190C and fed<'ration secretary from 1906 until 1910. She
is likewise a member of Minerva Chapter, No. 63, 0. E. S., in which she has held several
offices. She is now the secretary of the Lisbon public library, is a member of the Civic
League of the city and of the First Presbyterian church of Lisbon, in which she is secretary
of the board of trustees. She takes an active and helpful interest in all branches of church
work and in all those forces which work for the uplift and betterment of the individual.
SANDER E. LEE.
Sander E. Lee, cashier and one of the directors of the Owinner State Bank at Gwinner,
Sargent county, was born at Gol Hallingdal, Norway, on the 8th of November, 1875. His
education was partly acquired in his native country where he remained until he reached the
age of seventeen years and then sailed from Cliristiania for the United States, landing at
New York. He did not tarry on the Atlantic coast, but at once made his way across the
country to Iowa and established his home near Sioux Rapids owing to the fact that he had
relatives living in that locality. He there obtained his English education and remained in
that locality for about eleven years. During that period he had engaged to some extent in
farming, part of the time on his own account, and he there also learned the creamery business
and conducted a creamery in that district. For one year he was connected with a general
merchandising store at Wyndmere, North Dakota, to which place he removed in 190-4.
After living there for a year he organized the Wyndmere Creamery Company of which he
was made manager for two years, but at the end of that time he turned his attention to the
banking business, becoming assistant cashier of the Bank of Wyndmere, in which connection
he continued for nine months.
At the end of that period Jfr. Lee removed to Gwinner in November, 1907, and took
charge of the Gwinner State Bank as cashier. This bank was organized in 1904 with a
capital stock of $10,000.00, its first officers beiny T. F. IMarshall. president; A. N. Carlblom,
vice president: .1. E. Boundy, cashier, with F. W. Vail and H. C. McCarthy also on the board
of directors. The present officers are A. N. Carlblom, president; H. H. Berg, of Jlilnor, vice
president; S. E. Lee, cashier, and E. O. Johnson, assistant cashier. The capital stock of the
company was increased to $20,000,00 in 1912 and the surplus and undivided profits now
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 167
aggregate $4,000.00. Moreover, in 1911 they built a new bank building at a cost of
$8,500.00 which is very complete in its equipment. In addition to his bank interests Mr. Lee
is connected vvitli farming and now cultivates a half section of land of which one hundred
and sixty acres are in White Stone Hill township, Sargent county, and the other tract of one
hundred and sixty acres is in Roseau county, Minnesota. He wisely and carefully directs
his business interests and is winning therefrom a substantial measure of success.
On the 7th of May, 1908, Mr. Lee was married in Sioux Rapids, Iowa, to Miss Lyda
Anderson, who was born near that city March 16, 1884. They have become the parents of
three children, Emmet, Sylvan and Margaret. The parents are members of the Lutheran
church and are mucli esteemed by reason of their sterling worth throughout the community
in which they live. In his political views Mr. Lee is an earnest republican and active in
township and county affairs, having filled a number of offices the duties of which he has dis-
charged with promptness and fidelity. He is regarded as a valuable addition to the business
circles of Sargent county for he is active with those men whose efforts are constituting a
strengthening force in the development and upbuilding of the district.
SAM HANSON.
Sam Hanson, manager of the Great Western elevator at Horace, North Dakota, is a repre-
sentative business man of the town and under his management the interests of the elevator
company have been carefully safeguarded. He was born in Norway on the 6th of January,
1869, a son of Hans Jacobson, who passed his entire life in that country.
Sam Hanson was reared under the parental roof and attended the public schools of Nor-
way in the pursuit of an education. In 1886, however, when seventeen years of age, he left
his native land and crossed the Atlantic to the United States, subsequently continuing his
journey westward to North Dakota. He located at Horace and for a number of years worked
as a farm hand but at length purchased a threshing outfit, which he operated for five or six
years. In 1897 he began his career as a grain buyer and for five years represented the
Monarch Elevator Company at Horace, but in 1902 assumed charge of the business of the
Great Western Elevator Company at Warren. The following year, however, he was trans-
ferred to Horace and for the past twelve years has had charge of the Great Western elevator
there. As he understands every phase of the grain business and as he gives the closest
attention to the management of the elevator, the volume of its trade has grown and it has
returned good dividends to its owners.
In 1896 occurred the marriage of Mr. Hanson and Miss Albertina Jenson, also a native
of Norway, and they have had six children, but two are deceased, those surviving being: K.
Cecelia, Adelia H., Reynold S., and Hedwig.
Mr. Hanson is a republican in politics and for four years has served as justice of the
peace. He is also president of the school board, proving capable and conscientious in the
discharge of his duties in those capacities. Fraternally he is identified with the Modern
Woodmen of America, in which he holds the office of clerk. He and his family hold member-
ship in the Norwegian Lutheran church and the sincerity of their religious faith is indicated
in the uprightness of their daily lives. Mr. Hanson takes a commendable interest in matters
pertaining to the advancement of liis community, and his public spirit is one of his strongest
characteristics.
JOHN D. GRAY.
John D. Gray, who has contributed to the development of commercial interests at Valley
City as secretary and general manager of the .John D. Gray Company, retail merchants, is
actuated in all that he does by a spirit of enterprise that never recognizes the possibility of
failure or defeat. Persistency of purpose has enabled him to overcome all obstacles and diflS-
culties and through orderly progression he has advanced steadily to success. He was born
168 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
iit ISoscobel, Wisconsin, on tlie I'Jth of Augvist, 1874, a son of Jonatlian and Susan (Bowles)
Uiay, the former a native of Oliio and the latter of England. When a young man Jonatlian
Ciray removed to Wisconsin, where he followed farming in the vicinity of Boscobel, meeting
with substantial success in his undertakings. To him and liis wife were born eight thildren,
of whom John D. was the youngest. The father was called to his final rest in I'Jll when
seventy-eight years of age.
John D. (Jray accompanied the family on their removal from Wisconsin to Iowa in 1SS2,
at which time the father purchased a farm which he cultivated and developed until ISUO and
then sold that property, removing to St. I'aul, Minnesota, in 1S93. John U. Gray was at that
time eighteen jears of age. After mastering the branches of learning taught in the public
schools he started out in the business world as a clerk in a grocery store. He entered the
employ of Ycrxa Brothers, with whom he continued for two years, after which he was for
thirteen years witli the wholesale grocery house conducted under the name of the P. H. Kelly
Company, which he represented as a clerk and afterward upon the road as a traveling sales-
man. Ambitious to engage in business for himself, he carefully saved his earnings until his
capital was sullicient to enable him in 1905 to embark in the grocery trade on his own account
at Valley Citj-. He entered into partnership with H. M. X'elzey, with whom he continued for
about two years, and when Jlr. Velzey witlidrew Jlr. Gray organized the John D. Gray Com-
pany, the first president being G. L. Famliam, who later was succeeded by General A. P.
Peakc. Mr. Gray became secretary and general manager of the organization and has so con-
tinued. The building which the company occupies was erected for it by George M. Young
and is leased by the John D. Gray Company. It has a frontage of seventy-five feet on Fifth
avenue and a depth of one hundred feet, with a basement under the entire building. The
upper story is now leased for ofHces. Originally the company handled only groceries, but has
added a stock of dry goods and theirs is one of the important retail houses in the south-
eastern part of the state.
On the 7th of January, 1903, Mr. Gray was married to Miss Cora Dwight, daughter of
Charles A. and Sybil Dwight, of Benson, Minnesota They had two children, but both died in
infancy. Jlr. and Jlrs. Gra3' are members of the Congregational church and he is a Koyal
Arch Mason and also a member of the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks. He is a clean-
cut, enterprising business man, genial and courteous in manner, obliging in disposition, at
all times reliable and at all times alert to the opportunities for the attainment of success.
He carries a full line of high class groceries and dry goods, his store is characterized by
scrupulous cleanliness and the goods are systematically and tastefully arranged. Laudable
ambition has carried Mr. Gray into imjjortant relations and one of the strong elements of his
success is the fact that he has always continued in the business in which he embarked as a
j-oung salesman.
EDWARD HUNGER.
Ivlward Hunger, who was president of tlie Citizens National Bank of llaiikinson, was
also a largo landowner in Richland county and was recognized as one of its leading business
men. He was born in Rosenau, Germany, on the l.ltli of March, 181,'5, a son of Carl and
Carolina Hunger, both of whom died when he was but a child. He received his education
in the common schools and in his young manhood emigrated to the I'nited States and made
his way to Richland county. North Dakota, where he took up a homestead. At that time
settlers were few and far between and the work of development had scarcely been begun.
He brought his land under cultivation and made a number of improvements upon his home-
stead and subsequently took \ip a tree claim, which he held for nine years. In 1S8S he
removed to Hankinson and after spending a year in travel he engaged in merchandising,
which occupied his time and attention for eighteen years. In 1900 he established the Citizens
National Bank, of which he remained the head until his death. The institution is capitalized
for thirty thousand dollars, has a surphis of ten thousand dollars and average deposits of
one hundred and eighty thousand dollars. Its rapid and substantial growth was due in
large measure to the sagacity and b\isiness acumen of its president. He was also one of the
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA . 169
largest landowners in Richland county, owning many farms, comprising over fifteen liundred
acres of excellent land.
Mr. Hunger was married in 1868 to Miss Anna Hochheusler, a native of Germany, who
died in 1893, leaving a son, F. 0., who is now postmaster at Hankinson. In 1895 Mr. Hunger
waS married a second time. Miss Anna Johnson becoming his wife. She was born in Nor-
way, but came to this state from Fergus Falls, Minnesota.
Mr. Hunger was an adherent of the republican party and for fourteen years served on
the city council, while for some time he was a member of the school board, proving in both
capacities able and conscientious. His widow belongs to the Congregational church and takes
an active interest in its work. The principles which governed his conduct may be gathered
from the fact that he was a member of the Masonic order. He began to provide for his own
support when still a boy and thereafter depended upon his own resources and the financial
independence which he gained was proof of his energy and wise management. His honor and
reputation were beyond reproach, and his word was as good as his bond. He was honored
and respected by all who knew him and in his death, which occurred July 20, 1916, the com-
munity lost one of its most prominent and best known citizens.
EMIL EMANL'EL.
Emil Emanuel, one of the leading business men of Berthold, is conducting a hardware and
furniture store and is also engaged in the undertaking business. He was born in Germany
on the 2d of July, 1867, a son of Charles and Elenore (Aker) Emanuel, the former born in
1833 and the latter ten years later. The father served the required time in the German
army and was for a number of years overseer of a large estate in the fatherland. In 1867 he
emigrated with his family to the United States and settled in Princeton, Wisconsin, whence
he removed to Augusta, that state, where he passed away in 1906. His wife survives and
still resides there.
Emil Emanuel, who was the fourth in order of birth in a family of eight children,
attended tlie grammar and high schools in Augusta, Wisconsin, and when sixteen years of
ao-e began working for his brother, who was engaged in the furniture and undertaking busi-
ness in Milbank, South Dakota. After remaining there for seven years he returned to Wis-
consin and for eight years conducted a wholesale liquor business. Later for three years he
and his brother operated a meat market in Augusta, but in 1906 he came to Berthold, North
Dakota, where he has since resided. For two years he followed agricultural pursuits and
then purchased the hardware, furniture and undertaking business which he has since con-
ducted. He understands the problems that confront the retail merchant, follows up-to-date
methods and carries a large stock and as a result his patronage is large and profitable. He
has disposed of his farm and concentrates his energies upon the development of his mercan-
tile interests.
Mr. Emanuel was married on the 25th of September, 1885, to Miss Rose Berger, of
Augusta. Wisconsin, a daughter of August and Eve Berger, natives of Germany, where the
father passed away. He followed the occupation of farming and in young manhood served
the required time in the German army. The mother removed to Augusta, Wisconsin, in 1888
and died there in 1914. To Mr. and Mrs. Emanuel have been born six children. Herman A.,
who owns a meat market in Berthold, was married in December, 1915, to Miss Freda Hogan-
son, of Hingham, Montana. Emil A., who is assisting his father, was married in 1913 to
Miss Kate Whitman, of Berthold. Delia M. is the wife of Arthur Washburn, a telegraph
operator on tha Great Northern Railway. Harvey W. follows the tinner's trade and- also
assists in his father's store. He married Mildred Fredrickson and has two children, Verna
and Bruce. Arthur F. is likewise associated with his father in business. Eva is a graduate
of the Berthold grammar and high schools and is at home.
Mr. Emanuel supjiorts the candidates and measures of the democratic party at the
polls, and in religious faith is a German Lutheran. He is well known fraternally belonging
to Lodge No. 1089, B. P. 0. E.,.of Minot, Lodge No. 6, K. P., of Minot, the Modern Brother-
hood of America, of Berthold and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, of Berthold, in
170 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
wliich lie 1ms passed throiisli all the chairs. He is energetic, progressive and sound of judg-
ment, wliicli qualities have enabled him to gain a gratifying measure of prosperity, and his
genuine worth is acknowledged by all who know him. ,
THOMAS riTZMAURICE.
Thomas Fitziiuuiriec, an agricultural implement dealer of Mohall, and a representative
farmer and pioneer citizen of Renville county, was born in Braccbridge, Ontario, Canada, on
the 5th of January, 1870, and is a son of Edward and Frances (Stokes) Fitzmaurice, who are
mentioned elsewhere in this work in eoiuicction with tlie sketch of their son, Ur. F. S. Fitz-
maurice.
When a lad of ten years Thomas Fitzmaurice accompanied his parents on their removal
from Canada to the United States, at which time a location was made in Pembina. On
reaching manhood he bought a farm of one hundred and sixty acres adjoining the old home-
stead but for Some years thereafter continued to cooperate with his father in the development
of his farming enterprises. In 1901 Thomas F'itzniaurice homesteaded in what is now Renville
county, four miles north of Jlohall. and upon the property which he thus secured he con-
tinued to reside until 190.S. During the intervening period he bouglit more land, adding other
tracts adjoining his original holdings until 1908, at which time he was the owner of six
quarter sections in one body, or nine hundred and sixty; acres. Since then he has added
another quarter section to his holdings and is today one of the extensive landowners of his
part of the state. In the fall of 1908 he took up his abode in Mohall and established an
agricultural implement business. In the intervening period of eight years he has built up
an extensive trade and his patronage is now very large and gratifying, so that his annual
sales reach a profitable figure. During a portion of this time he continued to operate his
farm lands but has rccentlj' placed a tenant on his holdings.
In 1905 Mr. Fitzmaurice was joined in wedlock to Miss Mary Clifford, of Mohall, who
was born in Iowa, and they have one son, Thomas C. Mr. Fitzmaurice votes with the
democratic party but has never been an aspirant for public office. He has membership with
the Knights of Columbus and he and his wife are communicants of the Catholic faith. They
are greatly esteemed by reason of their genuine worth and Mr. Fitzmaurice has won a most
creditable position in business circles, steadily working his way upward through ability and
energy and winning that prosperity which is the merited reward of persistent and honorable
labor.
HAAKEN HAAKKNSON.
Among the many self-made men who have found in North Dakota opportunity for gain-
ing success is Haaken Haakenson, who owns an excellent farm on section 2. Normanna town-
ship, Cass county. A native of Norway, his birth occurred in Endresong on the 23d of
November, 1842. His father, Haaken Johnson, died in the land of the midnight sun.
Haaken Haakenson was educated in the common schools of his native country and con-
tinued to reside there until 18G9, in which year he crossed the Atlantic to the United States.
For three months he remained in Rock Prairie, Wisconsin, and then went to Mitchell county,
Iowa, where he lived for six years, working during that time as a farm hand. He practiced
the strictest economy and was able to save enough money to buy a yoke of oxen, with which
he dcove through to North Dakota in 1875. He was seven weeks in making tlfe trip and went
as far as Goose river, but not finding any desirable land in that part of the state, he retiirned
to Cass county, arriving in Fargo in July. At that time his sole capital was five dollars and
he not only had to support himself, but to provide for a wife and three children. He located
on eighty acres of his present farm, which he filed on as a preemption claim, but as he w^as
unable to make the payments thereon he later changed it to a homestead. In the meantime
a law had been passed permitting a person to file on one hundred and sixty acres as a home-
stead and he accordingly took up another eighty acres, making his farm a quarter section.
THOMAS FITZilAURICE
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 173
The first residence of the family in this state was a log cabin fourteen by sixteen feet, with
a sod roof, and later when his mother came from Norway to make her home with him he
built an addition eight by twelve feet. After living in that cabin for fifteen years Mr.
Haakenson erected his present substantial and commodious residence. He added two hundred
acres to his holdings, but has since sold forty acres, his present farm comprising three hun-
dred and twenty acres. The land is all in a high state of cultivation and yields good crops
annually, which find a ready sale on the market.
Mr. Haakenson was married in Norway, the spring before emigrating to this country,
to Miss Carrie Knudson. Ten children have been born to this union, but two are now
deceased, those surviving being: Caroline, the wife of Henry Huseby, of Normanna town-
ship, this county ; Osta, the wife of Martin Stenberg, also a resident of Normanna township ;
Anna, who married Andrew J. B.jerke, a lumber dealer of Sharon, this state; Knute, at home;
Christine, the wife of John Stenberg, who is engaged in the butcher business in Fargo; Hilda
J., the wife of Oscar Tostrud, of Fargo; Carl, also residing in Fargo; and Henry, who with
his brother Knute is operating tlie home fann. The two brothers are also stockholders in
the Farmers Elevator Company of Horace and in St. Luke's Hospital of Fargo.
The family belong to the Norwegian Lutheran church, the work of which they further
in every way possible, and their lives are guided by its teachings. In developing and improv-
ing his farm Mr. Haakenson has contributed to the agricultural development of his county
as well as to his individual success and he is justly considered one of its valued citizens.
DAVID ARTHUR DINNIF.
David Arthur Dinnie is a prominent contractor who has erected most of the larger
buildings at Minot. In this connection he has gained a prominent place in business circles,
but his name has become perhaps even more widely known throughout tlie country as the
owner of pacing horses with world records. He was born in Ontario, Canada, August 1, 1865,
a son of John and Mary (Gow) Dinnie, who were natives of Edinburg, Scotland, in which
country they were reared and married. Crossing the Atlantic about 1840, they settled in
Canada, where the father, who made farming his life occupation, died in 1900. He had long
survived his wife, who passed away in 1868. They were the parents of fourteen children,
twelve of whom reached adult age.
David Arthur Dinnie, the youngest of the family, practically had no educational oppor-
tunities and he has learned his life's lessons in the school of experience. He left his father's
home in April before attaining his tenth year and was employed on farms until fourteen
years of age. On the 3d of April, 1893, he made his way to Grand Forks, North Dakota, and
in that locality was employed at farm labor for two years. He afterward began learning
the brick maker's trade with his brothers and in 1899 he took up the work of general con-
tracting at Grand Forks, continuing in the business there until January 24, 1901, when he
removed to Minot and disposed of his interests at Grand Forks, where he had owned the land
that now constitutes the fair grounds at that place and which he sold to the fair association.
He removed to Minot because of the promising outlook of the town and at once established
business as a contractor. He has erected practically all of the larger buildings that have
been put up in the city since that time and he has acquired a large amount of IMinot real
estate, including both residence and business property. The important nature of his work
is indicated in the fact that he was awarded the contract for the erection of the State Normal
School, the International Harvester Company building, the high school and other prominent
structures and is now engaged in the building of the Parker Hotel. In 1906 he became inter-
ested in fine driving stock and at this time owns the champion father and daughter of the
world, Don Densmore, with a record of 3:02 1-4, and Sayde Densraore, with a record of 2:02.
He has altogether about thirty head of fine draft horses and other splendid stock, including
fourteen liead of standard bred horses. He came to North Dakota with less than a dollar
and he is now one of the prosperous and substantial citizens of the western part of the state.
His property interests in Minot include the Dinnie flats and also ground one hundred by one
hundred and forty feet on which his stables have been built. He trains and develops his
Vol. n— 10
174 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
horses in Minot and he may be justly proud of tlic fact that two of his animals have made
world records in pacing. His racing interests, however, are merely a diversion with him,
although he is a tliorough horseman and splendid judge of horse flesh. He keeps his stock
merely for pastime and pleasure.
On the 1st of February, 1893, Mr. Dinnie was married to Miss Elizabeth Delaney, who
was born at Henderson, Minnesota, a daughter of Timothy and Margaret Uelaney, who in
1883 took up their abode upon a farm south of Arvilla, North Dakota, where the fatlier still
resides, but the mother jiassed away in 1912.
In politics Mr. Dinnie is a republican, but is without aspiration for office. He belongs
to the Elks lodge and also to the Knights of Pythias lodge at Minot. He has a wide and
favorable acquaintance in this part of the state and he is most highly esteemed where best
known. He certainly deserves much credit for what he has accomplished and his life record
proves what maj- be done by an individual of resolute will and purpose who is not afraid of
hard work.
HARRY C. EDBLOM.
Harry C. Edblom, publisher of the Prairie Press at Gwjnner, was born in Litchfield,
Minnesota, May 27, 1890, a son of Charles and Hanna (Johnson) Edblom, who reside in the
vicinity of Litchfield. For a long period the father was engaged in the real estate business
but is now living retired, enjoying a rest which he has truly earned and richly deserves.
Harry C. Edblom obtained his education in the schools of Litchfield and there resided
until 1908, when he left home and went to Frazee, Minnesota. He had previously learned
the printer's trade and when eighteen years of age he accepted the position of foreman on
the Free Press of Frazee. remaining in that connection for a year and a half. He was next
employed in the office of the Headliglit at Staples, where he remained for a year and a half,
and on the expiration of that period came to Gwinner, North Dakota, where lie worked on
the Prairie Press for a time. He afterward purchased the paper, put in new equipment and
now has the best equipped printing office in Sargent county and the only full page press in
the county. He is making good here, giving to the public an attractive news sheet, and his
circulation and advertising patronage are constantly increasing. In addition to his journa-
listic connections Mr. Edblom is interested in insurance and ether lines of business. He makes
his n('wspa])er publication, however, his foremost interest and has the record of having issued
the largest paper in the state of North Dakota, The Prairie Press was organized June 20,
1908, at Ciete. and was printed at Wahpcton, North Dakota, its owner being Edward W.
Spencer, who conducted it for a year and a half. He then removed to Gwinner, where he
established a small newspaper plant, conducting the business until he sold out to Mr. Edblom
on the Ist of March, 1913. The new equipm?nt that has been added by Mr. Edblom cost
about thirty-five hundred dollars and there is no phase of the business that does not indicate
his progressive spirit and enterprise.
In his political views Mr. Edblom is a republican and his religious faith is that of the
Episcopal church. He is a very progressive business man, alert, wide-awake and enterpris-
ing, and his interests are of a character tliat contribute to public progress as well as to
individual success.
^VILLIAM J. CARROLL.
William J. Carroll is the owner of Minot property and farm lands and his life record is
indicative of the opportunities offered in this state, for his success has all practically been
attained since he took up his abode within its borders. He was born at Inverness, Canada,
February 10, 1862, a son of James and Mary (Rady) Carroll. The mother's birth occurred
at New Ireland, Canada, while the father's birth occurred in the country of Ireland, whence
he came to the new world when seven years of age. He made farming his life work and died
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 175
in Canada about 1900. His widow still resides in that country. They had a family of fifteen
children, of whom William J. is the eldest.
After attending the public schools of Canada, William J. Carroll left home when a youth
of seventeen and began workfng for others in the woods and in sawmills in Vermont and New
Hampshire. He arrived in North Dakota in 18S3 and was employed on a farm near Mayville
until he became engaged in business at that place. In February, 1887, he removed to Minot,
where he purchased property and established a bakery, but on the same day his establishment
was destroyed by fire, causing him a loss of two thousand dollars. He then went overland to
Williston, where he took a steamboat and returned to Fort Benton, driving from there to
Great F'alls. In the fall of 1887 he again arrived at Minot, where in connection with E. K.
Sykes he engaged in business, which claimed his time and energies for ten years. On the expi-
ration of that period he turned his attention to the business of shipping cattle and horses to
eastern markets and is still active in that field of labor. In 1899 he purchased a ranch on the
Knife river, where he engaged in the stock business for a number of years, having at times as
many as two thousand head of stock on his place. He discontinued the conduct of his ranch,
however, about 1905, although he continued to deal in range horses until 1915, when the range
was opened to settlement. He is the owner of business and residence property in Minot
and in 1909 he built the Carroll flats, which are unfurnished apartments. He also has other
property and is still the owner of farm lands in this state. His business afl'airs have
steadily grown in volume and importance and he is accounted one of the leading and repre-
sentative business men of his city.
On the 13th of January, 1893, Mr. Carroll was united in marriage to Miss Stella Hopper,
a native of Green Island, Iowa, and a daughter of James J. and Julia (Elder) Hopper, who
were born in Indiana and Iowa respectively. Mr. Hopper engaged in merchandising and also
in the live stock business. His wife died during the infancy of their daughter and by the
father's death she was left an orphan when twelve years of age. She attended the high
school at Maquoketa, Iowa, and was one of the first school teachers of Ward county, teach-
ing in a little log schoolhouse into whicli the gophers would frequently creep, sitting up on
the floors and benches as though listening to the proceedings of the pupils. When the school
grew large enough to require the services of two teachers, Mrs. Carroll and Mr. C. A.
.Johnson, now editor of the Optic-Eeporter, were in charge. Mrs. Carroll is a lady of broad
mind, liberal views and marked culture and has done much to mold the high intellectual and
social standards of the community. By her marriage she has become the mother of two
children, namely: Ruth, who is a graduate of the Minot high school, attended the State
University of North Dakota at Grand Forks for two years and is now a student in the
University of Minnesota; and William Glenn, who has attended the College of St. Thomas
at St. Paul and Shattuck Military School at Faribault, Minnesota. He is now at the Mexi-
can border with the First North Dakota regiment.
Both Mr. and Mrs. Carroll hold membershiii in the Episcopal church. The former is a
life member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles at Minot and also belongs to the Knights of
Pythias and to Lodge No. 1089 of the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks at Minot, being
the third to join the organization at Grand Forks and becoming one of the first Elks in the
state. Mrs. Carroll belongs to the Ladies Relief Corps, the Pythian Sisters and the Musical
Club, the last named being a woman's organization at Minot. In politics Mr. Carroll is a
stalwart republican and for four years, from 1898 until 1902, served as sherift' of the county.
He and his family are most widely and favorably known in Minot and that part of the state
and are accounted among its most valued residents.
OLE A. KALDOR.
Ole A. Kaldor, the present efficient and popular county treasurer of Traill county, is one
of the best known residents of Hillsboro. His birth occurred in Norway on the 8th of May,
1873, and he is a son of Anders and Anna KalJor, also natives of that country. The family
removed to America in 1873 and coming at once to the northwest, located on a homestead
in Traill county. North Dakota. The father devoted his time to the improvement and oper-
176 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
ation of that place until I'JIO, whun he removed to lliUsburo, where both he and liis wife
are now living, enjoying a period of leisure made possible by their former efficient labor.
Four of their seven children survive and all are residents of Traill county.
()le A. Kaldor attended the common schools in the acquircniMit of his early education
and was later a student in a business college at Minneapolis, lie remained on the home farm
until ho became of age and then went to Ward county, this state, where he liled on a
homestead. Through assisting his father witli the work of the home farm he became thor-
oughly familiar with agricultural pursuits and was very successful in the cultivation of
his land. At the end of eight years he sold that place and, returning to Traill county, pur-
chased the Kaldor homestead on section 20, Norw'ay township, which comprises two hundred
and forty acres of splendidly improved land. After living there for three years he removed
to Hillsboro, where he has since resided. He is now filling the office of countj' treasurer and
is making an excellent record in that capacity, being systematic, prompt and accvirate in the
discharge of his duties. His integrity has always been above question, and the confidence
which his constituents have placed in him is w'cU deserved.
In 1901 occurred the marriage of Jlr. Kaldor and Miss Lena Veikley, who was also born
in Norway. They are the parents of three children. May Adelia. Archie J. and Floyd O.
Mr. Kaldor is a stanch adherent of llie republican party and has served on the school board
and has held other township olfices. Both he and his wife hold membership in the Lutheran
Free church, and their influence is invariably given on the side of right and progress. Both
have a wide acquaintance and their genuine worth is attested by the fact that those who
have been the most intimately associated with them are their warmest friends.
PETER VANDENOEVER.
Peter Vandenoever is engaged in tlie real estate business ami in speculative building
at Minot and his efforts along business lines have been an important element in the develop-
ment and improvement of the city. He was born in Alto township, Wisconsin, May 4, 1836,
his parents being Richard and Harriet (Van Mauerick) Vandenoever, both of whom were
natives of Holland, in which country they were reared and married. They had a family of
eight children, of whom Peter was the seventh in order of birth. In the year 1852 they
crossed the Atlantic to the new world and took up their abode at Grand Island, New York,
near Niagara Falls, remaining tliere for about two years. At the expiration of that period
they removed to Alto townshi]), Wisconsin, where the father engaged in farming \intil 1860,
when he removed with his familj' to Mower county, Minnesota. He died in 1893, when on
his way back to his home from a visit in the old country. His death occurred in Boston
and he had there been buried when his son Peter learned of it and removed the body to
Dexter, Minnesota. His military record covered six years' service in the regular army in
Holland. His widow survived him and passed away in Dexter. ]\Iinncsota, in 1904.
Peter Vandenoever attended school in Minnesota and made his home with his parents
until twenty-four years of age. after which he began working for others as a farm hand,
Ijeing thus employed until a year after his marriage. On the 1st of June, 1882, he wedded
Miss Charlotte Funderhido, who was born on Greenwood Prairie, thirteen miles northeast of
Rochester, Minnesota, her parents being John and Amelia (Delozier) Funderhide, natives of
Maryland and Pennsylvania .respectively. They became early settlers of Minnesota, in
which state the father followed farming until his demise in 1883. The mother still survives
at the age of eighty-seven years and makes her home at Elkton, South Dakota. They
became the parents of eight children, Mrs. Vandenoever being the fifth in order of birth.
She acquired her education in the district schools of Minnesota.
A year after his marriage Mr. Vandenoever became ])roprietor of a hotel in Dexter,
Minnesota, which he conducted for about two years. He afterward dealt in grain and was
manager of a lumber yard for one and one-half years and was also active in the real estate
field, handled machinery and twine and had still other business interests at that place for
fifteen years. During that period he purchased fifty acres of land adjoining the town and
laid out two additions, known as Vandenocvor's first and second additions to Dexter. He
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 177
also engaged in buying stock and continued Ids residence at tliat place until the fall of
1901, when he filed on a claim near Surrey, Ward county. On the 17th of April, 1903, he
removed his family to Minot and relinquished the claim. In this part of the state, however,
he purchased a large amount of land and engaged in buying and selling land and city prop-
erty. He has since been engaged in the real estate business and he now has ten houses and
lots in Minot and is building more, being successfully engaged in speculative building as
well as in the real estate business at the present time. He now owns about eight hundred
■ acres of farm land in this county which he rents, while he concentrates his energies upon the
management of his real estate interests and his cily properties. At one time he was a stock-
holder in the Union National Bank but has withdrawn from that organization.
Mr. and Mrs. Vandenoever have nine children, as follows: Maud Agnes, the wife of
George Vermilya, who is engaged in the abstract business at Towner, North Dakota;
Clarence Peter, residing at home, who acts as deputy sheriff of Ward county; Chester Ter-
renes, who resides at Great Falls, Montana, is engaged in the milling business, is a stock-
holder in the Royal Milling Company and wedded Miss Lillian Stewart, of Everett, Wash-
ington; Josephine Mary, at home; Justin Francis, e.xpert driver of an auto truck in the
Minot fire department; Florence Amelia, at home; and Genevieve Charlotte, Enid Cecelia and
Cornelia Meredith, who are also yet under the parental roof.
Mr. Vandenoever holds membership with the Yeomen, as does his wife, and he belongs
also to the Modern Woodmen of America, while Mrs. Vandenoever is connected with the
Daughters of Isabella. Their religious faith is that of the Presbyterian church and in
politics Mr. Vandenoever is a stalwart republican. He is the present commissioner from the
first district of Ward county, serving for the third year, and he was on the city board for
six years as alderman and commissioner. As a member of the board of aldermen he served
on the finance committee and on the committee on streets and bridges. He was clerk of
the school board af Dexter, Minnesota, and was constable of his township at the same time.
He was administrator of his father's estate, has also been chosen to administer other estates
and is now acting as guardian of the children of five families. He is also serving as humane
oflftcer in Minot and he has made a most excellent record in every relation of life, holding to
high standards of manhood and of citizenship.
HON. ELLING SEVERSON.
Hon. Elling Severson has served as a member of the state legislature for three terms
and has gained a prominent place in agricultural and business circles of Cass county. He is
now president of the Farmers elevator at Kindred and owns seven hundred and twenty acres
of excellent land in Normanna township. His birth occurred in Dane county, Wisconsin, on
the 29th of October, 1853, and he is a son of Andrew and Martha (Flatland) Severson, natives
of Norway, who emigrated to the United States in 1844 and located in Wisconsin. Subse-
quently they removed to Goodhue county, Minnesota, wliere they lived until called by death.
Eight of the ten children born to them are still living.
Elling Severson received a common school education and remained at home until 1880,
when he removed to North Dakota and located upon his present home farm on section 3,
Normanna township, Cass county. As soon as possible he brought his land under cultivation
and as the years have passed he has made many excellent improvements thereon, as that place
is now one of the valuable and attractive farm properties of the locality. He has bought land
from time to time and now owns seven hundred and twenty acres, from which he receives
a good income. He is also president of the Farmers Elevator Company at Kindred, and
the success of that enterprise is due in no small measure to his energy and good judgment.
On the 3d of February, 1880, occurred the marriage of Mr. Severson and Miss Gertrude
Lee. She is a native of Norway and a daughter of Nels and Ambier Lee, both of whom are
deceased. By her marriage she has become the mother of the following children: Emma;
Nellie; Martina, who is now teaching school; Cora, also a teacher by profession; Geneva,
who is attending high school; Martius; Elmer; and four deceased.
Mr. Severson has supported the republican party since age conferred upon him the
178 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
right of franchise. He has long been recognized as a leader in politics and for three terms
he served ably as a member of the state legislature. He has also been on the school board
and for several years was chairman of the board of supervisors. His success is proof of his
foresight and enterprise, as when lie came to this state he was without capital and witliout
inlluential friends and as through all tlie intervening years he has relied ujiou his own
resources. He is widely and favorably known througliout the county, and his personal
friends are many.
JOHN GREEN.
Much of the progress of a communit\' is due to its business men and John Green, wlio
is engaged in the hardware business in Hankinson, has contributed to tlie development of
that town as well as gained individual success. He was born in Carver county, Minnesota,
on the 9th of November, 1865, a son of John and Maggie Green, natives of Wurtemberg,
German^'. He came to the United States when a young man of twenty-eight years and slie
emigrated to this country in her girlhood. They were married in Baltimore and for a time
lived in the east, where the father worked as a laborer. Subsequently they removed to Jlin-
nesota and at the outbreak of the Oil war Mr. Green entered the Union army, with which
he served for three years. At the close of hostilities he returned to Minnesota and from
that time until his death in 1895 concentrated his energies upon farming, in which he met
with gratifying success. Politically he was an adherent of the democratic party and his
religious faith was that of the Catholic church. He was a quiet, unassuming man and his
genuine worth gained liim the friendship of those who knew him intimately. To him and
liis wife were born eight children, of whom our subject is the third in order of birth.
John Green was educated in the common schools of his native county and subsequently
learned the harness maker's trade, which he followed from his seventeenth year until 1898,
•when he removed to Hankinson, this state. He engaged in the furniture business there on
a small scale and also continued to work at his trade and as the years passed he gained
prosperity. He now owns a large hardware store and as he keeps a well selected line of
goods of high quality and follows a liberal business policy his patronage has grown steadily
and is now of gratifying proportions. He also owns a store at New Eftington, South Dakota.
His business interests are conducted under the style of Green & Son and the lirm is recog-
nized as a factor in the commercial expansion of tlie town.
In 1887 occurred the marriage of Mr. Green and Miss Sarah A. Poppler, also a native
of Carver county, Minnesota, and tliey have ten children, seven sons and three daughters:
E. L., a druggist of Hankinson; R. C, who is in business with his father; F. W., a druggist
of New Elfington, i^jouth Dakota; Evangeline, who is studying music and art; Edwin \V.,
who is associated with his fatlier in business; Katlierine, a high school graduate; and
Walden, Lowell, Evcretta and Koswyn. all iif whom are at home.
Mr. Green votes the democratic ticket and takes a commendable interest in public
affairs. For nine years he served on the school board and for twelve years has been a mem-
ber of the city council. Fraternally he belongs to the Foresters, in which he has passed
through all of the chairs and to the Knights of Columbus, while his religious faith is that
of the Roman Catholic church. He has gained the respect and confidence of his fellow citizens
and there are many who hold him in warm personal regard.
JAY H. MAT.TBY.
Jay H. Maltby. owner and publisher of the Forman Independent News, has been identi-
fied with that paper for about thirteen years and his work in that connection has resulted
iu giving to tlie community a newspaper of interest and value to its readers. He was born
in the state of New York and there resided during his early boyhood, after which he
:accorapanied his parents on their removal westward to Detroit, Minnesota, where he became
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 179
foreman of a newspaper known as the Detroit Record, continuing in that position for several
years. When quite young he spent two years with the Bottineau Pioneer of North Dakota.
In 1892 he became connected with the Milnor Teller, which he continued to publish for nine
years, at the end of which time he sold the paper and removed to Bufl'alo, North Dakota,
where he published the Buffalo Express. There he continued for six months, when he went
to Davenport and published the Davenport News for two j'ears. In July, 1903, he moved
liis plant to Forman and began the publication of the Forman News, the first issue being
brought from the press on the 31st of July, 1903. He continued the publication of that
paper until 1911 and on the '30th of October of that 3'ear he purchased the Sargent County
Independent, which had been established in May, 1888. He then consolidated the two papers,
bringing out the first issue of the Forman Independent News on the 20th of October, 1911.
This he still publishes and has made it an attractive journal for the people of the district,
being given to the dissemination of local as well as general news. Through the columns of
the paper he enters upon a frank and free discussion of many important public problems
and his articles are most interestmg and readable and the political complexion of the paper
reflects his belief in the efficacy and value of republican principles.
Mr. JMaltby was married in Minneapolis, ilinnesota, to Miss Alice Hostettor, who was
born in southern Minnesota and there continued to make her home up to the time of her
marriage. They ha've a family of seven children : Allan J., who is now assistant editor of
the paper; and Violet, Belva, George D., Floy, Francis V. and Anna, all at home.
Mr. Maltby belongs to the Masonic lodge at Milnor, of which he is a past master, and
he also has membership with the Yeomen at • Mapleton and with the Ancient Order of
United Workmen at Forman. His political allegiance has always been given to the repub-
lican party and foj- four years he filled the office of justice of the peace at Forman, making
a creditable record by the fair and impartial manner in which he discharged his duties and
rendered his decisions. He now concentrates his entire interest in the paper and has a sub-
stantial plant, well equipped with modern machinery and presses. He is a well known
newspaper man of his section of the state, his record being at all times an expression of the
highest standards in newspaper publication.
JOHN W. SAMUELSON.
.John W. Samuelson, who established the first exclusive shoe store in Minot, in which
business he is still engaged, is also identified with other commercial enterprises of the city,
being the majority stockholder in the Ledstrom Furniture Company. He was likewise the
builder of the Samuelson block and in many ways has contributed to the substantial improve-
ment of the city in which he makes his home. A native of Sweden, Mr. Samuelson was born
in Halmstad, July 21, 1879, a son of Samuel and Mary Anderson, who are also natives of
Sweden, in which country they are still living, the father there devoting his attention to
farming.
John W. Samuelson is the youngest of their four children. He attended school in
Sweden but before reaching the age of seventeen years left home and crossed the Atlantic to
America. He located at Merrill, Lincoln county, Wisconsin, and was employed in a shoe
store for about a year. In 1897 he arrived in Minot and for two years spent his time in the
employ of the Great Northern Railroad Company or on a farm. In the spring of 1899 he
established the first exclusive shoe store in the city and has carried on the business since
that time, enjoying a constantly increasing trade proportionate to the growth of the city's
population. In 1903 he erected the Samuelson block, his store occupying the lower floor,
with the Independent office in the basement, while the upper floors are rented for office
purposes. Broadening the scope of his business connections in 1915, he organized the Led-
strom Furniture Company, which is also one of the profitable commercial undertakings of
the city.
On August 2, 1902, Mr. Samuelson was joined in wedlock to Miss Mary .Johnson, a native
of Lyle, Minnesota, and a daughter of Hans and Andria .Johnson, both of whom were born
in Norway. Thej' came to Minot in 1887 and the father has since been identified with agri-
180 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
cultural pursuits in tliis state, rosiding on his farm in the summer months and in the town
of Jlinot tIuuuj;liout the winter season. Jlr. and Mrs. 8amuelson liave four eliihlren, namely:
Harlow \\'alfrid, Knsel Samuel, Alice Jlarie and Carl Arnold.
Fraternally Mr. Samuelson is a prominent Mason, holding membcrshii) in the lodge,
chapter and commandcry at Minot and in the Mystic Shrine at Grand Forks. He is also
identified with the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks and his religious faith is indicated
by his membership in the Lutheran church. In politics he is a republican, somewhat inde-
pendent, for while he believes in the principles of the party, he often votes regardless of party
ties at local elections where no national issue is involved. He has never desired office, having
always concentrated his attention upon his business interests, and along the line of earnest
effort intelligently directed he has won the success which is now his, making him one of tlio
most substantial citizens of ilinot. He has never allowed obstacles or dilliculties to deter
him and when one avenue of oiiportunity has seemed closed he has sought out otlier paths
leading to the desired goal.
willia:m abial scott.
William Abial Scott, the president of the Pioneer Life Insurance Company of North
Dakota, and a well-known resident of Fargo, is a man who at all times is notably prompt,
energetic and reliable in business connections. His plans are ever well defined and carefully
executed, and while not all dajs in his career have been equally bright, the trend of his busi-
ness life has been along the line of progress and advancement and he has won for himself
a place among the substantial residents of his adopted city and state.
Mr. Scott, seventh generation in New England, is a native of Peterboro, New Hamp-
shire. He was born December 8. 1856, of the marriage of Albert S. and Anna (Sawyer)
(daughter of Abial and Sybil Buss Sawyer) Scott. Albert S., the son of William and
Phylinda Crossfield Scott, was a lawyer by profession and spent bis entire life in Peter-
boro, distinguished in his day and generation. Anna Sawyer was of the fourth generation
of tlie Sawyer family in the adjacent village of .Sharon, New Hampshire.
Three generations of the Scott family, father, son and grandson, saw service in the
Revolutionary war. The founder of the family in America was Alexander Scott, who was
born in Derry county, Ireland, and came to the new world with his wife Margaret and family
in the year 1734. He settled in Lancaster, Massachusetts. Later his son, Alexander, and
a brother (another son), William Scott, and Alexander's father-in-law, William Robb, were
three of the five men who founded, from 1735 to 1750, the town of Peterboro, New Hamp-
shire, Alexander Scott conducting the first hotel in that place. Major William Scott, son of
the before named Alexander Scott, and Margaret Robb, was a native of Townsend, Massa-
chusetts, and he, having seen service in the French war, and two of his sons, saw twenty-
eight years' service with the Colonial army in the war which brought independence to the
nation, one son being John Scott, the great-grandfather of William A. Scott, through his
son William by his first wife Bethiah Ames. Major William Scott married Phebe Woods,
daughter of Jonathan and Mary (Page) Woods, and through these marriages Mr. Scott traces
his ancestry to the Stevens, Show, Dempster, Minot, Adams and other families interwoven
in New England affairs from the beginning.
No event of special importance occurred to vary the routine of life for William A. Scott
in his boyhood days, spent in Peterboro, his time being largely passed in the attainment
of a public school education until he graduated from the Peterboro high school with the class
of 1874. He, just as his father before him and his son since, entered the Phillips Exeter
Academy. He was a member of the class of 1877 and there continued his studies for one
year, at the end of which time he became a student in the law office and under the direction
of his father. He next entered Dartmouth College, as his father had done, becoming a
member of the class of 1880, and there completed the work of the freshman year. Upon
his father's death, in August, 1877, however, he left college and removed west, settling in
Manhattan, Kansas.
It was his intention to engage in the cattle business, hut not receiving the financial
WILLIAM A. SCOTT
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 183
assistance he expected, in tlie spring of 1878 he went to Topelia, Kansas, and continued
reading law in the offices of G. C. Clemens and John G. Searles, being admitted to the bar
on tlie 8th of February, 1879. At that time he located for practice in Russell, Kansas,
but the following year returned to Manhattan, where he became a member of the firm
of Sawyer & Scott in the conduct of a law, loan and insurance business. During his resi-
dence there Mr. Scott was elected to the ofBce of city attorney and was chairman of the
republican county central committee of Riley county.
In January, 1881, Mr. Scott visited his home folks and wedded Miss Mary Ellen Wright,
of Walthara, Massachusetts, to whom he was engaged before coming west. She was born
in Clinton, that state, a daughter of William and Agnes (Lyon) Wright, natives of Paisley,
Scotland, where they were reared and married. They came to America about 1850 and
settled in Clinton, JIassachusetts. Mr. Wright was a weaver and assisted in setting up
some of the first looms in the United States. His grandfather, .James Tytler, a contem-
porary of Robert Burns, was a writer and pamphleteer and on account of his writings was
forced to leave Scotland. Coming to America he settled at Salem, Massachusetts, and was
engaged at Salem in newspaper work, prior to the Revolutionary war. He left the family
of his first marriage, including Mr. Wright's mother, in Scotland and afterward married a
second time in Salem, Massachusetts. It will be seen that Mrs. Scott is also descended from
an old and prominent Kew England family. She has ever been a most exemplary wife and
mother and a true helpmate to her husband in every way, in fact, Mr. Scott attributes much
of his success in life to her.
Following his marriage Jlr. Scott returned with his bride to Manhattan, Kansas. In
1882 he accepted a position in the local paying pension office in Topeka, where he was employed
for two and a half years and then formed a paitnership with H. E. Ball in organizing the
Kansas Investment Company, with which he was identified from 1884 imtil 1886. At that
date he went to work for the New Hampshire Trust Company of Manchester, New Hamp-
shire, making loans for that corporation, with office in Topeka. In 1888 he returned to the
east and arranged with the trust company to lemove his office to Fort Scott, Kansas, but
after remaining at that place for only three months he was sent to Fargo to take charge of
the company's office at that place. He continued to serve until the failure of the trust
company, which occurred during the widespread financial panic of 1893. Mr. Scott was
then employed to look after the business of the defunct company in this section of the
country, a work which occupied his attention until about 1905, when the business was closed up.
He afterward became associated with Governor L. B. Hanna and J. W. Smith in the comple-
tion of the Fargo Street Railway, the promoters of the road having failed. When this task
was accomplished Mr. Scott was made vice president of the road, with which he was associated
until 1907, when he sold his interests. Two years before, or in 1905, the state legislature
had established the state fair at Fargo and Jlr. Scott was made its first president, continu-
ing in that connection from 1905 until 1909 inclusive.' He was again president in 1911 and
once more in 1913 and 1914 and was recognized as one of the leading figures in the building
and improvement of the fair ground. He was the architect and builder of the only hog
building on a fair ground in the United States in which fair visitors eat their lunches, this
being in a sort of open gallery of the building. He still remains one of the directors of the fair
board.
Mr. Scott's public work has often been of a most important and valuable character and
has been of far-reaching effect and benefit. He was one of the dominant factors in the
building of the Masonic Temple at Fargo and devised the plan whereby bonds of one
hundred dollars were sold bearing three per cent interest, the bonds to be paid to the estate
after the death of the member or holder. In 1908 jMr. Scott was elected secretary of the
Pioneer Life Insurance Company of North Dakota, organized In 1907, and in 1909, when
Governor L. B. Hanna resigned as president, Mr. Scott was elected his successor and has
since served in that capacity, directing the interests and activities of the business, the
company being now recognized as one of the strong and reliable corporations of this char-
acter in the United States. Its ninth semi-annual statement, issued December 3, 1915,
indicates the company to be in an excellent condition and that its business is steadily grow-
ing. Its total resources in 1907 were one hundred and forty-four thousand, four hundred
and twenty-five dollars and in 1916 were eight hundred and sixty-five thousand, seven hun-
184 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
«liod and eighty-five dollars and eighty-four ci'iits. Its insurance in 1907 was one liuiidrcd
and six thousand dollars and in I'JIS, fourteen million, four hundred and thirteen thousand,
four hundred and thirty -six dollars and forty cents. His name is also a familiar one in
financial circles aside from his insurance interests, for he was for fifteen years a director
of the First National Bank of Fargo, the oldest banking institution of the state, and is now
director of the Northern Savings Bank of Fargo and of tlie First National Bank at Moore,
Montana. In 1890 Mr. Scott began buying farm lands and owns several farms in both
North Dakota and Minnesota, while since 1892 he lias been engaged in the breeding of
shorthorn cattle.
To Mr. and Mrs. Scott have been born four children, as follows: Agnes Anna, who
became the wife of Dr. P. H. Burton and died, leaving two children, Dorothy and William
Burton; Albert Daniel, the president of the First National Bank of Moore, Montana; William
Wright, who is the assistant treasurer of the I'ioneer Life Insurance Company; and
Clement A., who died in infancy. Mr. Scott is a prominent Mason, being a grand cross thirty-
second degree Mason, of which there are only twelve in the United States. He is also presi-
dent of the board of trustees of the Scottish Rite bodies of the state. He is identified with
the Fargo Commercial Club and with the New England Society. He advances the new
interpretation or philosophy: "God creates all," "and man husbands and fashions God's
•creations." Man, He created with equal food capacity (not equal as usually given) or rather
food assimilation to produce human energy, and food has been and is the universal medium
of exchange, the real necessity, its scarcitj' or plenty having fixed the permanent locations of
peoples over the earth's surface. All other material things and the fashioning thereof
to human uses are the conveyances moving about the earth's food supply to all the peoples
of the world, and man with his brains to act, fashion and devise, is the supervisor, each in
his own generation, an energizing force while he lives, bringing to earth no material resource
when he comes and removing none when he folds his shroud about him and should lie down
to pleasant dreams.
Mr. Scott's interests are broad and varied and have brought him proniini'ntly to the
front in many connections. He is regarded as a thoroughly reliable and enterprising business
num, possessed of sound judgment, keen discrimination and indefatigable energy.
HANS E. BJERKE.
Hans E. Bjerke was living retired at Kindred, Cass county, North Dakota, when he
passed away March 24, 1916. He was a factor of no small importance in the agricultural
development of his section and owned eleven hundred acres of excellent liiiid. lie was born
in Norway on the 14th of November, 1840, a son of Even and Martha (Knaterud) Bjerke,
both natives of that country. The mother died there, but in 1870 the father emigrated to
the United States, where he passed away. To them were born nine children but only three
are now living.
Hans E. Bjerke attended school in Norway and continued to reside there until 1802,
when he crossed the Atlantic to the United States. After living in Wisconsin for a year he
was a resident of Chicago for a similar period and then went to Houston county, Minnesota,
where he remained until 1872. In that year he removed to Cass county. North Dakota, and
located upon land on section 14, Normanna township, which was then a tract of wild prairie.
As soon as possible he erected a log cabin covered with a sod roof and there he resided for a
number of years. At length, however, he replaced this primitive structure with a huge and
ripto-date residence and he also erected excellent barns and o\ithuildings. He numifested
his firm faith in the value of Dakota land as an investment by buying farms from time to
time until he owned eleven hundred acres, which is in a high state of cultivation and is well
improved. He gained financial independence because he was quick to recognize and prompt to
utilize opportunities and he managed his affairs in accordance with sound business principles.
He believed in the value of organization and cooperated efTort and was a stockholder in the
Farmers ele-i>tor at Kindred.
In 1869 Mr. Bjerke was united in marriage to Miss Martha Stenhjem, who was horn in
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 185
Wisconsin, and tliey became the parents of nine childien, namely: Maria, Andrew, Hannah,
Emma, Edward, Oscar, Selma, Hjalmar and Ella.
Jlr. Bjerke gave his political allegiance to the republican party. He held membership
in the Lutheran church, to which his wife belongs, and furthered its work along various
lines. He was recognized as a factor in the moral advancement of the community and his
many admirable qualities gained him high place in the regard of those who were associated
with him. The marked success which Mr. Bjerke won as a farmer is all the more notable in
that he was dependent upon his own resources and was what in this country we term, a
self-made man.
MICHAEL J. McMAHON.
Michael J. McMahon, a successful farmer of Barnes township, Cass county, is also
engaged in the dairy business and has won a gratifying measure of success in both lines of
activity. He was born in County Clare, Ireland, August 3, 1855, of the marriage of Jerry and
Bridget (O'Connor) McMahon, who in 1870 came to the United States. For three years they
resided in St. Paul, Minnesota, but at the end of that time came to North Dakota, where a
son Patrick was living. He had accompanied General Rosser on his exploring expedition
througli the state and subsequently located in Cass county. His father made his home with
him for a while, but later homesteaded eighty acres of land.
Michael J. McJIalion homesteaded an eighty acre tract adjoining his father's farm in
1877 and subsequently purchased railroad land, his holdings now totaling two hundred and
eighty acres. In early manhood he followed railroading for four or five years and ran into
Bismarck on the first train into that city. For many years, however, he has devoted his
Attention to farming and has brought his place to a high state of development. For some
time he lias engaged extensively in the dairy business and is now milking twenty-two cows.
He finds a ready sale for the milk and receives a gratifying profit from his dairy interests.
Mr. IiIcMahon was married in 1880 to Miss Hannah Paulson, a native of Minnesota,
whose parents came to this country from Norway. To Mr. and Mrs. Mcilahon have been born
*ight children, seven of whom are still living, namely: Frank H. and Daniel, at home; Edward,
who is in the employ of the Northern Pacific Railroad and is living at Livingston, Montana;
Theodore, who is also a railroad man and is on a run between Barnesville and Crookston;
Alice, who is teaching in the schools of Barnesville, Minnesota; and Walter and Richard,
both of whom are at home.
Mr. McMahon casts his ballot in support of the democratic party and for twenty-six or
twenty-seven years has served continuously as township assessor, his retention in the office
being evidence of the ability with which he discharges his duties. He is a communicant of
the Roman Catholic church, but his wife is a member of the German Lutheran church. Both
may be depended upon to further movements seeking the moral advance of their community
and during the years of their residence in Cass county they have gained the sincere respect
iind goodwill of their fellow citizens.
LEMUEL BEATON.
Lemuel Beaton, who is successfully engaged in agricultural pursuits on section 17,
Barnes township, Cass county, was born in Prince Edward Island, April 2, 1846, a son of Jolm
and Ann (McAdam) Beaton, also natives of that province, where their entire lives were
spent. The father was a farmer by occupation.
Lemuel Beaton was reared under the parental roof and attended the local schools, his edu-
cational opportunities being somewhat limited, however, as all of the schools at that day
were subscription schools. When fourteen years of age he went to work in a shipyard and
there learned the shi])builder's trade, at which he worked for about twenty years. On leaving
Prince Edward Island in the fall of 1867 he went to Calais, Maine, where he worked in the
186 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
shipyards. In 180U lie removed to Cliioago and continued to follow Iiia trade there until the
spring of 1871, when lie went to Duhitli, Minnesota. The following fall he joined the bridge
building gang of the Northern I'acific Kailway, which w^as then building in Fargo, and worked
on the bridge across the Red river between iloorhcad and Fargo. He was employed on the
construction of the Northern Pacific for about a year and a half, following which he engaged
in boat building on the Red river. In March, 1873, he filed on a preemption claim on section
10, Barnes township, Cass county, but did not locate on his land at that time, as he continued
to work at his trade until 1877. He then took up his residence upon his claim where he lived
for fifteen years, after which he sold that place and bought his present home farm of one
hundred and sixty acres on section 18, Barnes township. His sons now own a half section, and
they and our subject are farming in partnership. They follow improved methods and use up-
to-date machinery in their work, and the sale of their crops yields them a good profit.
Mr. Beaton was married in 1873 to Miss Mary Lyons, of Mirmisih. New Brunswick,
Canada, by whom he has eleven children, James, Frank, John, Charlie, Joseph, Daniel, Mary,
Theresa, Alice, Anna and Walter.
The republican party has a stanch adherent in Mr. Beaton and for a number of years
he has served as a member of the board of township trustees and. as a member of the school
board, proving capable and conscientious in the discharge of his duties. Both he and his
wife are communicants of the Roman Catholio church, being members of the cathedral at
Fargo, to the support of which they contribute. Mr. Beaton has resided in the northwest
for many years and is entitled to honor as one of the pioneers of North Dakota whose labors
have made possible the present prosperity of the state.
ALFRED JOSEPH HENRY.
Alfred Joseph Henry is now living retired at Valley City, although for more than a third
of a century he was connected with the First National Bank there and his loyalty to the
institution and his splendid business record well entitle him to the rest which he is now
enjoying. He is surrounded by many of the comforts of life and has leisure to enjoy those
things which are of most interest to him. He was born in New York city, July 20, 1843, a
son of aiarles and Frances (Selmea) Henry, the former a native of Portugal and the latter
of England. The property of the paternal grandfather was destroyed and when a young man
the father went to England. He was educated in Spanish, Portuguese and English, his liberal
education proving a substantial capital when necessity forced hira to enter business life
dependent \ipon his own resources and exertions. Crossing the Atlantic to New York city,
lie was there married and he became connected with the ollices of the Journal of Commerce,
having charge of their foreign business, his linguistic powers enabling him to meet the
demands in this connection. He died, however, at the comparatively early age of thirty-
eight years, while his widow spent her remaining years in Brooklyn, New York.
Alfred Joseph Henry was the eldest of their five children, of whom three are now living.
After acquiring a public school education in Brooklyn he made his way westward to Hanni-
bal, Missouri, in company with his uncle, Tilden R. Selmes, who is mentioned in the writings
of Mark Twain. Hannibal's most noted author. Mr. Selmes was several times mayor of that
city and a man of |)rominence in the state. He also became well known in connection with a
duel in which he was one of the participants.
On the 24th of May, 1861, Mr. Henry, responding to the country's call for military aid,
enlisted as a member of Company B, Sixteenth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, at Quincy, Illi-
nois, under Captain Wells and Colonel Smith, The command was shortly afterward sent to
Hannibal, Missouri, where it was equipped and the troops first met the enemy at IMonroe
Station on the Hannibal & St. Joseph Railroad, being stationed for some time between that
point and St. Joseph, Missouri, where more than once they encountered the Confederates.
They afterward went south and were on duty in Tennessee under General Pope. With his
command Mr. Henry participated in a number of hotly contested engagements, including the
battles of New Madrid and Corinth. At the latter place he was taken ill and sent to the
Benton Barracks Hospital in St. Louis. After about a month he rejoined his regiment, which
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 187
was sent from point to point and participated in a number of battles and skirmishes. On
the expiration of his first term he reenlisted and continued with the same regiment until the
close of his service on the 20th of March, 1865, on which date he was wounded in the battle
of Bentonville, where occurred a three days' fight. He was then sent to Newbern, North
Carolina, and was in the hospital at that place when he heard of Lincoln's assassination. He
was afterward transferred to Fort Schuyler, New York, and was honorably discharged in
June, 1865, as a private. His commission as second lieutenant was on the way to him when
he was wounded, but he did not receive it until the summer. He was at Atlanta from May
until September 1, 1864, being present at the fall of that city, and he also participated in
the march to the sea under Sherman and in the northward movement of the army through
North Carolina, leading up to the engagment at Bentonville, where he was wounded.
At the close of the war Mr. Henry went to Brooklyn, New York, where he pursued a
commercial course and then secured a position in a wholesale boot and shoe house of New
Y'ork, continuing in that line of business until 1880, when he came west, settling first at
Brainerd, Minnesota. In October of the same year he removed to Valley City, North Dakota,
where he was employed by C. F. Kindred for about a month. He then returned and passed
the winter at Brainerd, but in the following spring again made his way to Valley City, where
he entered the First National Bank, which was a private bank until July 15, 1881, he having
become an employe there in April of that year. He remained in active connection with the
bank until April, 1915, when after a service of thirty-four years he retired. That his work
was appreciated by the president and directors of the institution is indicated in the fact that
his name is still retained on the pay roll.
In 1873 Mr. Henry was man-ied to Miss Georgiana Vallad, of New Y'ork, and their children
are: Russell C, of Duluth, Minnesota; May L., at home; Frank S., land commissioner at Bis-
marck; Theresa; T. S.; Belle; Alfred; and Georgina.
Throughout all the years of his residence in Valley City Mr. Henry has been a stalwart
advocate and supporter of the plans and measures for the general good. He served as clerk of
the court for several years and as school treasurer of the first district for a number of years.
He holds to high civic ideals, is a member of the Grand Army of the Kepublic and is as true
and loyal to his country as when he followed the stars and stripes on southern battlefields.
No higher testimonial of his capability and fidelity in business could be given than the mere
statement of the fact that for thirty-four years he remained with the First National Bank,
but if one wanted further proof he need but ask tlie officers of the bank, all of whom speak of
him in terms of the highest friendship, respect and regard.
ALBERT EDWARD BOYXTON.
Albert Edward Boynton established and conducts the Jlinot Dental Laboratory, in which
connection he has developed a business of large and gratifying proportions. He is also engaged
in the tire business, being the distributor for Goodj-ear tires covering Northwest North Dakota
and eastern Montana and as success has crowned his efforts he has placed some of his capital
in the safest of all investments — real estate. A native of Geneva, Nebraska, he was born
December 3, 1882, a son of H. E. and Eliza (Reynolds) Boynton. The father was born at
Berlin, Wisconsin, March 19, 1857, and the mother's birth occurred in Mattoon, Illinois, on
the 31st of May, 1856. H. E. Boynton devoted his early life to farming, but afterward in
order to give his children good educational privileges, removed to Oshkosh, Wisconsin, where
he conducted a transfer business. He still makes his home in Oshkosh, although at the
present time he is in North Dakota, where he has business interests.
Albert E. Bo.ynton began his education in the schools of Geneva, Nebraska, having the
advantages offered the other members of the family, which numbered seven children, of whom
he is the second in order of birth. Later he continued his education at Savannah, Missouri,
and afterward at Oshkosh, Wisconsin, and prepared for the practice of dentistry as a student
in Haskell's School of Dentistry at Chicago, Illinois. His education, however, had not been
continuous, for in the meantime he had entered business circles and had provided for his own
support. When a lad of fifteen years he began learning the machinist's trade in Oshkosh,
188 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
serving a regular apprenticeship of three years. About that time tlie macliinists went upon
a strike and Mr. Boynton left home, going to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, wher^ he remained until
after he reached the age of twenty-two years, lie was for two years employed by the Bucyrus
Steam Shovel Works at South Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and for about eight months he waa
emjiloved by the Nordberg Manufacturing Company, continuing with them until the follow-
ing fall, wlien he took up his course in tlie Haskell School of Dentistry. Later he was
em])loyed for six months in a dental laboratory in Chicago and on the 7th of September,
lUOO, he arrived in Minot, North Dakota. There he established the Minot Dental Laboratory
for the manufacture of teeth for the supply of dentists. His trade covers North Dakota and
eastern Montana and he also manufactures those things which are needed in crown and bridge
work, made from impressions taken by the dentist. His thorough training along this line
and his experience have enabled him to turn out most excellent work and his patronage is
growing steadily. In addition to his other interests he is a landowner in North Dakota and
Oregon, owning also residence property in Minot. He devotes most of his time to the labora-
tory business, however, and in that connection is gaining a patronage of gratifying propor-
tions.
On the 27th of June, 1909, Mr. Boynton was united in marriage to Miss Lydia M.
Fischer, who was born in or near Milwaukee, Wisconsin, her parents being W. M. and Anna,
Fischer. The father is a retired agriculturist and makes his home in South Milwaukee. Mr.
and Mrs. Boynton have two children. Esther June and Irene Ruth.
Mr. Boynton exercises his right of franchise in support of the men and measures of the
republican party, but is independent at local elections, supporting policies and men rather
tluin party. He holds membersliii) witli the Methodist Episcopal church and his aid and
inlluence are always given on the side of progress, reform and improvement. His life has
been one of untiring activity and his industry is the measure of his success, for he has had
no outside assistance, having from the age of fifteen years depended entirely upon his own
resources for his advancement and his prosperity.
ALBERT B. DILL.
Albert B. Dill is engaged in the insurance and real estate business at Minot and is also
filling the office of justice of the peace in Ward county. A young man, he has already
attained a position which many wlio are his seniors might well envy. He was born at Belvi-
dere, Nebraska, February 23, 1884, a son of John aiul Mary (Wilson) Dill. The father was
born at Logansport, Indiana, March 0, 1.S48, and the mother was born at Zanesville, Ohio,
January 11, 1864. In early life John Dill settled in Nebraska, becoming a resident of that
state in 1877, after which he engaged in farming and stock buying. He still retains his
residence in Nebraska, making his honu; at Belvidere, but is now practically living retired.
He has refused to become a candidate for the legislature, having no political aspirations, but
has always been accounted one of the representative and valued residents of the district in
whicli he makes hi.s home, standing at all times for those measures and movements wliich
are of greatest worth in the upbuilding of a community.
Albert B. Dill is the only son and the eldest of a family of six children. He attended
school in Belvidere until he was graduated from the high school with the class of 1902. He
afterward graduated from the Lincoln high school with the class of 1905 and completed a
course in a business college at Sioux City, Iowa, in 1906. He remained at home until he
reached the age of eighteen yeai's, after which he engaged in teaching for one term. It was
svibsequent to that time that he studied in Lincoln, attending high school there for two
years. He made his way through business college unaided, providing for the expenses of the
course, after which he entered the employ of tlie Great Nortliern Express Company in Sioux
City, remaining with that corporation for two years. Later he went to Williston, North
Dakota, in September, 1908. as agent for the Great Northern Express Company and a year
later was transferred to Anaconda, Montana, where he continued for a year. He was after-
ward in the superintendent's office at St. Paul for three months and in November, 1910, was
assigned to the position of agent at Minot, continuing in that position until 1912, when he
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 189
resigned and began dealing in coal and oilier fuel. He remained in that business for two
and one-lialf years, after which he sold out and on the 1st of April, 1915, he was appointed
justice of the peace for Ward county. He lias since served in that capacity and has been
nominated for election to that office in November, 1916. He is also engaged in the real estate,
rental, collection and insurance business and is secretary of the Merchants Association. He
concentrates his energies upon liis business affairs and his official duties and his is a busy,
active and useful life.
On the 6th of March, 1911, at Minot, North Dakota, Mr. Dill was married to Miss Julia
Daniel and they have one child, Helen Emily. In his fraternal relations Mr. Dill is a Mason,
belonging to the lodge at Sioux City, Iowa. He is also connected with the Knights of Pythias
at Minot and he attends the Presbyterian church. His acquaintance is wide and his sub-
stantial qualities have gained for him the warm regard of those with whom he has been
brought in contact.
MONS BERDAL.
Mons Berdal, deceased, was a well known farmer residing on section 34, Barnes town-
ship, Cass county. He was born in Norway on the 15th of April, 1848, a son of Engebrit
Berdal, who passed his entire life in that country. Our subject was reared at home,
received his education in the public schools and continued to reside in Norway for a number
of years after reaching maturity. In 1878 he came to the United States with his wife and
three children, making his way direct to Cass county, North Dakota, where his sister, Mrs.
Ole Headland, liad resided for three years. He purchased a quarter section of land, which
became his home farm and on which he lived continuously until his death January 27, 1916.
He at once began the work of its development and as the years passed made many improve-
ments thereon, at the same time carefully conserving the fertility of the soil. He added one
hundred and sixty acres to his holdings, becoming the owner of three hundred and twenty
acres, and his labor was rewarded with bountiful crops, the sale of which yielded him a good
income. He also owned stock in the Farmers elevator of Sanders and in the Sanders Tele-
phone Company.
In 1872, in Norway, occurred the marriage of Mr. Berdal and Miss Synneve Headland,
who died in 1900. To them were born seven cliildren, Andrew, Albert, Gertrude, Ella, Mary,
Clara, and John, deceased. The three elder children were born in Norway and the four
younger in this country. Andrew is now administrator of the estate left by his father,
while Albert acts as manager and Gertrude as housekeeper.
Sir. Berdal was a republican in politics but never took an active part in pul)lic affairs,
altliough he was never remiss in any of the duties of citizenship. He was a communicant of
the Norwegian Lutheran chinch, whose influence he sought to extend and whose teachings
guided his life.
DUGALD J. McKENZIE.
Dugald .1. McKenzie, member of the firm of McKenzie & Leslie, of Forman, was born
near Inverness, in the province of Quebec, Canada, November 12, 1853, a son of John and
Katherine (Brodie) McKenzie, who throughout their entire lives remained in eastern
Canada.
Their son, Dugald J. McKenzie, pursued his education in the public schools of his home
locality until he reached the age of sixteen years, when he crossed the border into the United
States and for two years was a resident of St. Johnsbury, Vermont. He then went to
Lowell. Massachusetts, where he learned and followed the carpenter's trade and was fore-
man of construction work at that point until about twenty-five years of age. He then
returned to his old home in Canada in order to supplement his early schooling by further
intellectual training, and for one year was a student in a normal school, after which he
190 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
wont tlirougli the Inverness high school, froui wliioh lie was graduated. He afterwards
went upon the lecture platform as a representative of the Independent Order of Good Temp-
lars and was largely instrumental in establishing the Scott act, a temperance or local option
measure. He did everything in his power to promote temperance sentiment and place limita-
tions upon the liquor traffic. Two years were devoted to that work, in which he covered
the country very thoroughly. He afterward traveled for a year as a representative of the
firm of Parker, Fry & Cory, of Littleton, New Hampshire, devoting a year to patent rights
work.
It was about that time, or on the 24th of December, 1884, that Mr. McKcnzie was
marriid to Miss Jarthat McKca, a native of Picton, Nova Scotia, the marriage being cele-
brated at Lowell, Massachusetts. Mrs. McKenzie passed away at Rutland, Sargent county.
North Dakota, July 10, 1890, and her death was the occasion of widespread regret, for she
had won many friends In the community.
On the 23th of September, 1887, Mr. JIcKenzie brought his family to North Dakota,
settling at Miluor, and was pastor of the Presbyterian church at that place, doing good
work for the moral development of the community. However, he abandoned the work of the
ministry and on the 17th of June, IS'JO, was elected superintendent of schools of Sargent
county and remained in that position for four years, his labors being effective in the exten-
sion and improvement of the school system. In October, 1894, he entered into partnership
with E. W. Thorp under the firm style of Thorp & McKenzie and opened a law office and loan,
collection and real estate agency. This relation was maintained until August 1, 1897, when
Mr. McKenzie entered into partnership with J. E. Bishop and A. M. Groner under the firm style
of Bishop, Groner & McKenzie. In 1908 Mr. Groner died, at which time the firm was reorgan-
ized under the style of Bishop &. McKenzie. That partnership was discontinued in July, 1911,
after which Mr. McKenzie was joined by A. Leslie in organizing the firm of ilcKenzie & Leslie
for the further conduct of a law, loan, collection and real estate business. In 1901 ho organ-
ized tlie Sargent County Abstract & Title Guarantee Company and is still conducting business
under tliat name, having the only undertaking of the kind in Sargent county.
In 1904 ilr. McKenzie was again married, his second union being with Eva Walker,
who died in 1911. There were two children by his first marriage: Marion, now the wife of
A. Leslie; and Helen, who married M. B. Lyken.
In his political views Mr. McKenzie is a reiniblican and for many years has served as
a member of the village board, doing everything in his ])ower to further public progress in
the community in which he lives. In 1908 he became a candidate for state treasurer, but
was defeated. His position on the ])arty ticket, however, indicates his prominonce in politi-
cal circles as ho received the strength of the ])arty vote. His activities have always had to
do with those things which touch tlio general interests of society and his inlluence and
labors have been along the lines of uplift and improvement.
JUDGE .L A. COFFEY.
Judge J. A. Coffey since his elevation to the bench in 1911 has gained a place among
the most able and most impartial judges of the state and holds the confidence of the bar
and the general public alike. His official duties make the first demand upon his time
and attention but he takes a great deal of interest in farming and in all movements that
tend toward making it more scientific and efiicient. He holds title to a large amount of
land and personally supervises the operation of two excellent farms.
Judge Coffey is a native of North Carolina and was born on the 4tli of July, 1872.
His parents were Patterson V. and Martitia (Estes) Coffey, the former of whom died in
Eugene, Oregon, in 1911 and the latter in 1910. The father was a successful farmer and
was highly esteemed in his community. In 1SS8 he removed with his family to the Pacific
coast. To him and his wife were born six children, two sons and four daughters, the
brother of our subject being Dr. R. C. Coffey, of Portland. Oregon, who served at one time
as vice president of the American Medical Association, and is one of the leading surgeons
of the United States.
JUDGE J. A. OOFFEY
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 193
Judge Coffey was educated in the public scliools, at Williamette University, of Salem,
Oregon, where he took his preparatory work, and at the University of Idaho, graduating
from the classical department thereof in 1897. Subsequently he went to St. Paul, Minne-
sota, where he took a course in stenography and typewriting, and still later took up the
study of law in the night school of the University of Minnesota, continuing his work
therein for three years. During the daytime he worked in law offices and in the loan
department of the Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company of Milwaukee, thus
gaining practical experience that was of great value to him wheri he began the independent
practice of his profession. Following his gradiiation in law in 1900 he remained with the
insurance company for two years, after which he engaged in inspecting lands with the
view of determining their fitness as security for loans, and he also devoted considerable
time to the examination of titles. In July, 1903, he removed to Wahpeton, North Dakota,
where he engaged in the practice of law in partnership with F. B. Lambert, of Minot.
In November, 1902, he removed to Stutsman county and established an office in Courte-
nay, where he continued to practice law until appointed judge of the fifth judicial district
by Governor Burke. He removed to Jamestown in 1913, and was chosen by the people
for a term of four years in that year and in 1916 for another term of four years. His
thorough knowledge of the principles of jurisprudence, of statute law and of precedent,
combined with his natural fairness and openness of mind, fit him admirably for his
duties as judge and his record on the bench is a most creditable one.
Judge Cotl'ey is a firm believer in the possibilities of North Dakota as an agricultural
state and in connection with others owns five thousand acres of land and he oversees the
renting of this tract. He also supervises the operation of two farms which he owns
individually and which are among the best improved places in his section of the state. All
the buildings are of the most modern design and construction and he has a number of
silos as he believes in the value of ensilage of stock food. He grows alfalfa, sweet clover,
blue grass, wheat grass and timothy and raises stock extensively, specializing in short-
horns and Red Polled cattle and in Duroc-Jersey and Poland China hogs. He also has a
fine young orchard and makes the development of his farm his recreation, sparing no labor
nor expense in bringing it to the greatest degi-ee of perfection possible. He has demonstrated
that North Dakota is adapted to the successful raising of field crops and his example has
been a factor in the promoting of scientific farming in his district.
On the 30th of December, 1903, Judge Coffey was united in marriage to Miss Josephine
Andrews, of Faribault, Minnesota, and their children are two in number, Robert and
Eleanor.
The Judge is a democrat in politics but never allows partisan considerations to
influence his conduct on the bench. He is an elder in the Presbyterian church, to the sup-
port of which he contributes generously, and his influence can always be counted upon to
further the right. He is also a trustee of Jamestown College, located at Jamestown,
North Dakota. He is identified with the Young Men's Christian Association, believing that
it is one of the most efficient organizations in the building of strong, upright manhood.
He also cooperates with the projects of the Commercial Club, of which he is a member,
and has proved himself a broad-minded and public-spirited citizen.
OLE P. HOLMEN.
Many of the excellent citizens and successful farmers of North Dakota were born in
Norway and among the number is Ole P. Holmen. Avho owns and opreates a fine farm in
Stanley township, Cass county. His birth occurred on the Sth of April, 1843. and he is a
son of Peter and Mary (Lewis) Holmen, the former of wliom died in Norway, while the latter
joined her children in the United States in 1870 and made her home with them until her
demise.
Ole P. Holmen was reared in his native land and continued to reside there for a number
of years after attaining his majority. In 1868, however, he came to America and located in
Rice county, Minnesota, where he worked as a farm hand for some time, and also for a
Vol. n— 11
194 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
period of time worked on a railroad. In 1871 lie removed to Fargo, North Dakota, and pur-
chased eighty acres of land on section 19, Stanley townsliip, Cass county, lie later pur-
chased one hundred and sixty acres of his present farm on the same section and not long
afterward preempted a similar tract on section 20, Stanley township. He also owns other
land, his holdings comprising five hundred and thirty-three acres, and he is one of the well-
to-do men of his locality. His success is the direct result of his industry and the wise
management of his affairs, as dining his entire career he has depended soUly upon hi"; own
efforts.
In 1872 Mr. Holmcn was married to Miss Marj' ."inder-son, a native of Norway, wlio came
to the United States in 1868 in early womanhood. To them have been born three children,
one of whom is deceased, the others being: Helmer, who is farming land belonging to his
father; and Samuel, at home.
Mr. Holmen votes the republican ticket and for four year has been a member of the
board of trustees, his record in tliat capacity being a very creditable one, as he has sought
in every way possible to advance the general welfare. He and his family hold membership
in the Norwegian Lutheran church, and the genuineness of their faith is evidenced by the
uprightness of their lives.
CLARENCE C. WYSONG.
Clarence C. Wysong, attorney at law practicing at the bar of !Minot, was born near
Greencastle, Indiana, on the 24th of November, 1SS6, a son of John and Marj- (Nugent)
Wysong. Both parents are natives of Putnam county, Indiana. The father is a farmer and
stock raiser and is still actively engaged in general agricultural pursuits at Greencastle,
Putnam county.
Clarence C. Wysong is the eldest of three children. He attended the high school at Green-
castle, Indiana, and was graduated with the class of 1904. He afterward spent two years
as a student in De Pauw University at Greencastle and then entered the University of
Indiana, from which he was graduated with the degree of Bachelor of Arts in 1910. while in
1911 he won the LL. B. degree from the same institution. He has since devoted his atten-
tion to the practice of law, but in the meantime he had started out in the business world
in connection with other activities. He finished his course in high school when a youth of
sixteen, after which he was employed as fireman on the railroad and as timekeeper by a
construction company. He utilized every available opportunity to gain a living through
employment in the summer months until he had completed his university course. In July,
1911, he left Indiana and made his way direct to Minot, where he secured a situation in the
law office of Palda, Aaker & Green. He continued with that firm for about two years and
then formed a partnership with Halvor L. Halvorson in the practice of law. That connec-
tion Avas maintained for a year, since which time Jfr. Wysong has practiced alone, devoting
liis entire time to his professional duties. He recognizes the force of industry and thorough
preparation and enters the courtroom well prepared to present his cause in the strong,
clear light of reason. His arguments are sound, his deductions logical and he has won many
verdicts favorable to his clients.
On the 29th of January, 1914, Mr. Wysong was united in marriage to Miss Harriett E.
Lane, a native of Indiana and a niece of Henry S. Lane, the first republican governor of
Indiana. Her parents are Oscar F. and Mary (Wendling) Lane, natives of Putnam county,
Indiana, and Shelby county, Illinois, respectively. Rev. Oscar F. Lane, a minister of the
Christian clinrcli, is now living retired in Putnam county, Indiana. His wife was a sister
of the noted lecturer, George F. Wendling, who has recently passed away. Mr. and Mrs.
Wysong have one child, Elizabeth, who was born August 8, 191.5.
Mr. Wysong behmgs to Morton Lodge, No. 409. F. & A. M., which is the strongest inland
lodge in this state. He is also identified with the Elks and for three years was secretary of
the local organization with which he is connected. He belongs to the Knights of Pythias,
the Modern Woodmen of America, the Ancient Order of United Workmen and the Sons of
Veterans, of which he is secretary and treasurer. He is a member of the Alinot Association
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 195
of Commerce and he is deputy state oil inspector. In politics he is an unswerving republican,
believing firmly in tlie principles of the party and never faltering in his allegiance thereto.
While he is undoubtedly not without that laudable ambition which is so great an incentive to
loyalty in public office, he yet regards the pursuits of private life as in themselves abundantly
worthy of his best eiTorts and in the practice of law is gaining a place among the representative
members of the profession.
C. C. FURNBEEG.
C. C. Furnberg. who is farming on section 32, Barnes township, Cass county, is also
engaged in merchandising at Osgood, that township, and has met with success in botii under-
takings. He was born in Dakota county, Minnesota, on the 11th of July, 1869, a son of
Cliristian and Anna (Olson) Furnberg, both natives of Norway, whence they emigrated to
the United States in 1868 in young manhood and womanhood. In that year they were
married in Dakota county, Minnesota, where both had located, and there the father passed
away the year following when our subject was but two weeks old. In 1871 the mother came
to North Dakota with her son and after making her home in Reed township for three years
homesteaded the farm on which our subject now lives. In 1886 she was again married,
becoming the wife of L. P. Jensen, who passed away in 1909, while she survived until 1911.
C. C. Furnberg was educated in the district schools and on reaching manhood cooperated
with his stepfather in the operation of the home farm. In 1895 he entered the mercantile
field in Osgood, where he has since conducted a store. He carries a well selected line of
goods of high quality and is accorded a gratifying patronage. Following his mother's death
he inherited the home farm of four hundred acres, three hundred and twenty acres of which
he rents, operating only eighty acres. He has managed his affairs well and as the years
have passed his financial resources have increased.
In 1895 Mr. Furnbcig was married to Mis Hannah Korum, of Brandon, Minnesota, and
they have become the parents of six children: Agnes, the wife of A. 0. Grimstvedt, of Fargo;
Alice, who is attending the Dakota Business College at Fargo; and Roy. Carl, Oscar and
Myrtle, all at home.
The political allegiance of Mr. Furnberg is given to the republican party and both he
and his wife arc members of the Horace Congregational church, the teachings of which are
exemplified in their lives. Mr. Furnberg has resided in this state during practically his
entire life and has thoroughly identified his interests with those of the commonwealth,
cooperating heartily in all movements seeking the general welfare.
W. I. IRVINE.
W. I. Irvine is successfully engaged in the practice of law in Lidgerwood, Richland
county, and is also the owner and editor of the Monitor, an excellent and well patronized
weekly newspaper. He was born in Danville, Illinois, on the 21st of April, 1862, and his
parents, James and Mary (Paddock) Irvine, were born respectively in Pennsylvania in 1833
and in Massachusetts in 1841. The paternal grandfather, Thomas Irvine, was a native of
County Antrim, Ireland. He emigrated to the United States and settled in Pennsylvania, where
he engaged in merchandising, selling goods to the laborers and railroad men that built the Erie
canal. He passed away in the Keystone state. The parents of our subject were married in
western Pennsylvania in October, 1860, and not long afterward removed to Danville, Illinois,
where the father farmed, although he had been a contractor and builder in the east. At length
he returned to Pennsylvania and after remaining there for a number of years became a resident
of Lincoln, Nebraska, where he passed away in 1893. He was a democrat in politics and
took an active interest in all public affairs. He was a man of good education and was well
informed on all questions and issues of the day. He and his wife belonged to the Presby-
terian church. She is still living and makes her home in Lincoln, Nebraska.
196 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
W. I. Irvine, who is the eldest in a family of seven children, received his education in
the common schools of Pennsylvania and in an academy at White Bluff, Tennessee. On
beginning his business career he became connected witli the Daily News of Youngstown,
Ohio, in 1881, but subsequently removed to Minneapolis, Minnesota, where he took up the
study of law. In 1887 he was admitted to the bar at St. Paul and continued to reside in
Minneapolis for a year but in 1888 became a resident of Lidgerwood, North Dakota. He
has since engaged in the practice of law; trying cases not only in this state but also in
South Dakota, and on a number of occasions appearing before the federal court. He under-
stands the underlying principles of jurisprudence, is well versed in statute law and prece-
dent and this knowledge, combined with his analytical mind and habit of careful prepara-
tion of his cases, enables him to win a favorable verdict in most instances. In lUOO he pur-
chased the Monitor and has since conducted that paper in addition to practicing law. The
Jlonitor has a circulation of seven hundred and is well patronized by the local business men
as an advertising medium. He also does a good job printing business, for which his plant
is well equipped.
In 1887 Mr. Irvine was united in marriage, in Brown county, Wisconsin, to Miss Ida
Dolbear, who was born in Vermont. They have four children: Perry, who assists his father
with the publication of the Monitor; Jessie and Inez, who are teaching; and Helen, who
graduated from the high school with the class of 1915 and is now attending the Valley City
^Normal School.
Mr. Irvine is a stalwart democrat and both in his capacity as editor and as a private
citizen does all in his power to secure the victory of that party at the polls. Fraternally
he belongs to Harmony Lodge, No. 53, A. F. & A. M., in which he has served as master for
years; to the Royal Arch Cliapter, in which he was high priest for six years and in which
he is again filling that office; and to the Mystic Shrine. His wife is a communicant of the
Protestant Episcopal church and both support heartily all efforts to further the moral
advancement of their community. Mr. Irvine is entitled to the honor that Americans pay
to self-made men as he began without capital or the aid of influential friends and through
his own efforts has gained a position of honor in his community and a gratifying measure of
financial success.
WILLIAM CULLEN.
William CuUen, who owns six hundred and forty acres of fine land in Normana town-
ship, Cass county, is now devoting his attention exclusively to farm work, but for a num-
ber of years also engaged in blacksmithing. He was born in Canada on the 12th of Novem-
ber, 1860, a son of Robert and Margaret (Linton) CuUen, both of whom were natives of
Scotland and in the '40s emigrated to America, settling in Canada, where they passed the
remainder of their lives. They were the parents of fourteen children, six of whom have now
passed away.
William Cullen was reared and educated in the Dominion, but in the fall of 1880, when
about twenty years of age, came to North Dakota. He worked at the blacksmith's trade
in Fargo until 1889, when he removed to his present home farm on section 5. Normana
township, Cass county. He has erected fine buildings upon his place and otherwise made
many improvements so that his farm is today attractive and well developed. Since taking
up his residence there in 1889 he has lived upon his farm continuously save for three years
which he spent in Fargo. He has invested in more land from time to time and now owns
six hundred and forty acres, all of which is improved and from which he receives a hand-
some income. For fourteen years he engaged in blacksmithing more or less, but is not
now active in that line. He owns stock in the Farmers elevator at Warren and is recognized as
an excellent business man.
On the 1st of April, 1885, Mr. CuUen was united in marriage to Miss Mary Augedahl,
who was born in Norway and is a daughter of John and Carrie (Oleson) Augedahl, Her
mother is deceased, but her father is now living in Davenport, North Dakota. Mr. and Mis.
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 197
Cullen are the parents of a daughter, Minnie, who is a graduate of the local schools, and
they have also reared as their son a boy by the name of Ernest Brown.
Mr. Cullen votes for the candidates of the republican party, but has never desired office
as a reward for his loyalty. He and his family attend the Presbyterian church and can be
counted upon to support all woi'thy causes.
J. VAN HOUTEN^, M. D.
Dr. J. Van Houten, who for thirteen years has been actively engaged in medical practice
in Valley City, was born in Waupon, Wisconsin, on the ISth of December, 1876. His father,
Jacob Van Houten, a native of Amsterdam, Holland, came to America when a young man,
settling at Albany, New York, where he married. Subsequently he removed to Wisconsin,
where he engaged in the contracting business, and in that state he spent his remaining
days, passing away in 1911 at the age of seventy-four.
Dr. Van Houten was the youngest in a family of two sons and two daughters and after
mastering the branches of learning taught in, the public schools of his native city he became
a student in the Northwestern University at Chicago. Hlinois, and after four years devoted
to the study of medicine was graduated with the class of 1903, receiving his professional
degree at that time. He then came to Valley City and for three years was associated in
practice with Dr. L. S. Platou. but since then has been alone. His ability has brought him
prominently to the front and his studious habits have kept him in touch with the onward
march of the profession as scientific investigation has 'brought to light many new tinrths.
In August, 1905, Dr. Van Houten was united in marriage to Miss Florence Whitfield
Hallock, of Faribault, Minnesota, a daughter of Cliarles A. Hallock. They have three
children, Delphine, Charlotte and Hallock.
Dr. Van Houten belongs to the Masonic lodge and to the Benevolent Protective Order
of Elks. In hi^ college days he took an active part in athletics and college games and today
outdoor sports is his chief diversion from the onerous cares of his profession. His time
and attention, however, are mostly given to his home and to his practice although he recog-
nizes and fully meets the obligations and duties of citizenship. Along professional lines he
is connected with the Sheyenne Valley Medical Society, the North Dakota State Medical
Society and the American Medical Association.
ISAAC P. CLAPP.
Isaac P. Clapp is one of the best known and most esteemed citizens of Fargo, where
he has lived since pioneer times. His attention is now largely given to his extensive real
estate holdings, for with the passing years he has made judicious investments in farm lands
and other property and at all times has displayed keen discrimination and sound judgment.
He was born in Dutchess county. New York, on the 4th of March, 1839, a son of Peter B.
and Sarah E. (Pells) Clapp, who were also natives of Dutchess county, where they spent
their entire lives, remaining always in one township, where the father followed the occupa-
tion of farming.
Isaac P. Clapp acquired a district school education and made his way to the west in
early manhood, attracted by the fact that he had an uncle living in Kenosha, Wisconsin,
with whom he made his home for a time. Subsequently he became owner of two planta-
tions in central Texas and operated one of them for thirty-five years, raising cotton. On
the 14th of October, 1880, he arrived in North Dakota, settling in Fargo, where in company
with Miller W. McCraw he opened the Cass County Bank, the third bank of the city. For
four years he was identified with that institution and then, owing to the fact that his part-
ner was an invalid, they closed out the bank and Mr. Clapp turned his attention to the real
estate business and to farming, becoming an extensive owner of farm lands in North Dakota.
At one time he owned between three and four thousand acres, but has sold much of this in
19S HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
ri'oont years. He still gives his attention, however, to the management of his agricultural
interests, whieli are yet extensive and return to him a gratifying annual income.
On the 7th of June, 1882, Mr. Clapp was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Sleight, of
Kenosha, Wisconsin. They have one son, Edwin G., who was educated in the University of
Minnesota and is now assistant cashier of the l-'irst National Bank of Fargo. Mr. Clapp is a
republican in politics, but has never been an aspirant for public preferment. Fraternally he is
i<li'iitiliiHl with the Masonic order, belonging to Sliiloli Lodge, No. 1, A. F. & A. ^I.; Key-
stone Chapter, No. 5, R. A. M.; Fargo Council, No. 1, R. & S. M.; Auburn Commandery. No.
2, K. T.; Dakota Consistory, No. 1, A. & A. S. R.; and El Zagal Temple, A. A. 0. N. M. S.
About 1900 the thirty-third degree was conferred upon him — an honor given only in recog-
nition of splendid service rendered to the organization. For twelve years he was the treas-
urer of tlie blue lodge, the chapter, the consistory, the Shrine and the Club and has been a
member of the board of trustees of the Temple since its building. He and his wife arc
members of the Episcopal church, to the support of which he has been a generous contribu-
tor. He belongs also to the Fargo Commercial Club and is interested in all of its well for-
mulated plans for the improvement of the city and the extension of its trade connections.
He has never had occasion to regret his determination to come to North Dakota, for in the
business conditions which met him here he found the oppoiiunities which he sought and in
their utilization has worked his way steadily upward, becoming in the course of years one
of the prosperous residents of Cass county. He deserves much credit for what he has accomp-
lished, as his success has been won entirely through persistent, earnest effort guided by the
spirit of enterprise and of business integrity.
JAMES C. SMALLWOOD.
.lames 0. Smallwood, a prominent man and manager of the Smallwood Sanitary Gro-
cery Company in connection with which he has built up an extensive busine^ in Minot, was
born in Newcastle, New Brunswick, January 21, 1867, a son of William F. and Caroline
(Barnes) Smallwood. The latter was a granddaughter of one of the governors of New-
foundland. The father was born at Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. By trade William
F. Smallwood was a shipbuilder, but later in life filled the oflice of justice of the peace and
was known by the title of squire. Both he and his wife made their home in Newcastle
and the former passed away in 189.'! and the latter in 1000.
.James C. Smallwood was the youngest of thirteen children ;in(l in tlie scliools of New-
castle, New Brunswick, pursin^d his education. As a lad of thirteen years he was bound out
to a grocer for four years apprenticeship. He. received four dollars per month for the first
two years, after which he was employed two years in a wholesale grocery establishment at
Newcastle. He then left home, going to Marinette, Wisconsin, where he worked in a gro-
cery store for two years and then r<'turncd to Newcastle where he was again connected
with the wholesale lunise in which he had previously been employed and where he spent two
more years. In the meantinu! he liad married and at the end of that period he left Canada
for the United States, going to St. Paul where he remained for a short time. He then
removed to Brainerd, Minnesota, and for one year was in the Northern Pacific shops after
which he spent about four years as an employee in the grocery store of A. J. Brockway.
During that period he carefully saved his earnings and at the end of that time established
a grocery store in Brainerd which he conducted for two years. After closing out the busi-
ness he was employed by the firm of Abbott & Wilkins in Brainerd for about six years, at
the end of which time he opened and Viocauie manager of the grocery department in the
store of H. 1. Cohen, with whom he continued for two years. After Mr. Cohen sold out
Mr. Sniallwood continued to manage the grocery de|)artment for his successor for si.\ months
and thin went to Havre, IMontana. to take charge of the grocery department of the Havre
Commercial Comi)any with which he continued for eighteen months. In May. 1904, he
came to Minot and opened the Smallwood Grocery. Three years later he purchased another
store, which he also conducted for abo\it three years, and then consolidated the two estab-
lishments under the name of the Smallwood Sanitary Grocery. He has since conducted the
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 199
business in this way, carrying a complete line of staple and fancy groceries, having an
establishment which would be a credit to a city of much larger size. The store is most
tastefully and attractively arranged and the stock is extensive and of high quality. Mr.
Smallwood is also a stockholder in the Union National Bank and has extensive land interests
in Ward county, North Dakota, operating three quarter sections of land, or four hundred
and eighty acres. He likewise owns a fine residence in Minot and a number of city lots and
his business and real estate interests are evidences of his life of well directed energy and
thrift.
On June 7tli, 1890, Mr. Smallwood was married to Miss Rachel Elliott, who, like her
Imsband, was the youngest of thirteen children. Her parents were AValter and Mary
(Vaughn) Elliott, the former a native of Newfoundland and the latter of New Brunswick.
The father was a shoemaker which business he followed for many years. Neither he nor
his wife ever became residents of the United States and both have now passed away. Mr.
and Mrs. Smallwood have become the parents of six children: James F., who is associated
with his father in business; Pearl M., who is bookkeeper in the business; Lulu, who is a
stenographer with the firm of Stone, Ordean & Wells, wholesale merchants having a branch
house at Minot; Berton G., who is assistant manual training teacher in the Minot high
school and who married Miss Winifred Churchill; Walter, who has recently completed the
high school course; and Vaughn, who is attending school.
It was soon after his marriage that Mr. Smallwood left Marinette, Wisconsin, and went
to Hinckley, Minnesota, where he was employed by Foley Brothers & Guthrie, railroad
contractors, taking goods from freight cars to their camps on the Kittle river. He con-
tinued with them until the job was completed, after which he returned to his native city.
Mr. Smallwood is identified with several fraternal organizations, belonging to the Elks,
Knights of Pythias, Odd Fellows and Maccabees lodges in Minot and the Modern Woodmen
Camp at Brainerd. He has filled all the chairs in the last three organizations and he is also
one of the directors of the Minot Curling and Skiing Association. While his life has been
an extremely busy one he has realized the fact that the well balanced character is that
which grows in strength not only from business activity, but from recreation as well and
thus he has given a due proportion of his time to those things which are a matter of pleas-
urable interest to him. He served for several years as a member of the school board of
Minot and during most of that time was chairman of the teachers' committee. He is also
a, member of the public library board. In his business career the steps in his progress are
easily discernible. He has worked along well based and liberal lines, his push and persis-
tent energy and honorable dealings have brought him success while the methods which he
has followed have gained him distinction as a representative resident of his adopted city.
JOHN W. JOHNSON.
John W. Johnson, the owner of the Holy Cross farm, on section 18, Stanley township,
is one of the leading agriculturists of Cass county and is widely and favorably known. A
native of Urasa, Sweden, his birth occurred on the 3d of July, 1869, and he is a son of .Johan
and Johanna Maria Magnuson, both of whom spent their entire lives in that country. In
1887, when seventeen years of age, our subject left Ins native land and crossed the Atlantic
to the United States, making his way to Stillwater, Minnesota. After working on the
river for some time he was employed as a carpenter in Minneapolis and St. Paul and in 1888
came to North Dakota and worked in the harvest fields until the close of the season, when
lie returned to Minnesota, where he spent the following winter in tlie lumber woods. In
1889 he settled permanently in this state and worked as a farm hand on the place which
he now owns. Subsequently he was made foreman of the farm and later rented the place,
operating it under a lease for a number of years. He carefully saved his money and in
1904 had accumulated sufficient capital to purchase the farm, which comprises four hun-
dred and twelve acres of fine land. For the past ten years he has been making a specialty
of raising seed potatoes, principally Early Ohios, for the Kansas, Texas and Oklahoma
markets and has succeeded beyond his expectations in that undertaking. In 1914, in associ-
200 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
ation with Albert Brakkc, he built a potato storage house with a capacity of twenty-five
thousand bushels. He is also a stockholder in the Farmers elevator at Wild Rice, the Far-
mers elevator at Sanders and the River Line Telephone Company.
The Holy Cross farm is one of the points of historic interest in the county as it was
located by the first white settler in this stiite witli the exception of the French Canadians
who settled at Pembina. In ISo'J Father Genin, a French Catholic priest, came to what is
now Cass county, Korth Dakota, and built a church and erected a cross, which is to this day
known as the Holj' Cross. He had received from the government a grant of land on which
to establish a mission, which was known as the Holy Cross Mission, but subsequently
returned to France and also spent some time in Rome before again coming to North Dakota.
On his arrival at the site of his mission he found that six French Canadians had squatted
on the land, but he forbore to contest their claim. This was in 1870. The French Canadians
thought that thirty or forty acres apiece was all the land that they wanted but later found
that inadequate and sold out, removing westward. The old mission ground, which is now in
possession of llr. Johnson, is still known as the Holj' Cross farm.
In 1893 Mr. Johnson was united in marriage to Miss Caroline Peterson, of Xorman
county, Minnesota, and they have become the parents of seven children: George A., mana-
ger of the W. H. White lumberyard at Wild Rice; and Richard W., Albert T., Ima M.,
Myrtle, Anna and John W., Jr., all at home.
Mr. Johnson is independent in politics, following the lead of his judgment rather than
the dictates of a party leader. He holds membership in the Modern Woodmen, and his religious
faith is that of the United Lutheran church. His has been an active, useful life, and his
industry has been rewarded with gratifying success. He has also gained the sincere respect
and the warm regard of those with whom he has been brought in contact, for his salient
characteristics are those of the highest type of manhood.
CHARLES A. ANDERSON, D. V. S.
Dr. Charles A. Anderson, a veterinary surgeon practicing at Valley City, was born at
Stevens Point, Wisconsin, February 11, 1864. His father, A. T. Anderson, a native of Nor-
way, came to America when a young man, settling in Wisconsin, where he maiTied and
reared his family, there residing until 1880, when he removed to Barnes county and took up
his abode in Ashtabula, where he continued to make his home until 1906, when he removed
to Valley City, where he was residing when death called him September 6, 1914, at the
age of eighty-eight years. He was a blacksmith by trade and a man of marked energy and
business ability. After becoming identified with agricultural interests in North Dakota
he gave much attention to stock raising, largely handling cattle that were a cross between
Durham and Holsteins and proved splendid milkers.
Charles A. Anderson was one of a family of six children born of his father's second mar-
riage. His youthful days were spent in Wisconsin and his educational opportunities were
those provided in a log schoolhouse, for the family were pioneers of that state as well as of
North Dakota. After removing to Barnes county he continued to attend school as opportunity
offered and later he worked upon the homestead farm of four hundred and eighty acres,
which included also a tree claim and preemption claim. There he remained until 1886,
when at the age of twenty-two years he turned his attention to the livery business and
this led to his interest in the profession to which he now devotes his time and energies.
In preparation for practice he entered the Chicago Veterinary College and later opened
an ofTice at Valley City, where he has since continued. For three years he was associated
with Dr. .J. W. Poole, a graduate of the Ontario Veterinary College, and later entered into
partnership with Dr. C. H. Martin, the partnership continuing for six years. Since that
time Dr. Anderson has practiced alone. In 1902 he built a hospital and stable on Front
street, which he uses exclusively in his business, the hospital being splendidly equipped
for all kinds of veterinary work. He keeps in touch with the latest scientific methods and
his services, by reason of his skill and ability, are in constant demand, his practice now
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 201
being very extensive. He is also the owner of some fine stock and a splendid Percberou
stallion weighing over two thousand pounds heads his stud.
In 1890 Dr. Anderson was married to Miss Stella M. Wylie, a native of Wisconsin
and a daughter of Edgar L. Wylie, a North Dakota pioneer. They have two children:
Viola, who attended the Valley City Normal School and has taken up the study of music;
and Charles R., now in school. Dr. Anderson is a member of the Knights of Pythias and
in that organization and also outside of its ranks he has many warm friends. His profes-
sional connection is with the State Veterinary Association and he is a man of acknowledged
prominence in his chosen calling.
LARS OLSEN.
Lars Olsen, who is engaged in farming on section 33, Warren township, Cass county,
lias also served as postmaster of the town of AVarren for twenty-three years. His birth
occurred in Norwaj- on the lltli of March, 1849. and he is a son of Ole and Margaret Olsen,
who were lifelong residents of that country. They were the parents of six sons, of whom
four are still living, and all reside in America.
Lars Olsen was reared in his native land and acquired his education in the public
schools there but in 1870, when about twenty-one years of age, came to the United States.
He lived in St. Paul until 1876 and was there employed as a laborer. His next removal
was to Thompson, Minnesota, whence in July, 1878, he made his waj- to Cass county. North
Dakota, and located on his present home farm on section 33, Warren township. He erected
a log cabin with a bark and sod roof, which was the first house on the prairie in his part
of the county, and for six years that remained his residence. At the end of that time,
however, he built a better dwelling and as the years have passed he has made other improve-
ments upon his place. He has planted a fine grove, which serves as a windbreak and also
adds to the beauty of the farm. He owns one hundred and sixty acres, from the cultivation
of which he derives a good incoihe, and in addition to growing grain he raises considerable
stock. For twenty-two j-ears he also engaged in buying grain but lias now discontinued
that business.
Mr. Olsen was married in 1876 at St. Paul, Minnesota, to Miss Carrie Eriekson, who
died in 1887. She was the mother of sis children, of whom four survive, Ole, Alfred, Carl
and Hilbert. In 1891 Mr. Olsen was again married, Miss Sophia Sontroll becoming his
wife. To them have been born ten children, Mabel, Alice, Melvin, Lydia, Cecelia, Reuben,
Bernice, Lenora, Arnold, and one who is deceased.
Mr. Olsen is an adherent of the democratic party and for the past twenty-three years
has served eflSciently as postmaster of the town of Warren, which is located on land which
he once owned. Since 1S81 he has been school director, for fifteen years he has served as
treasurer of his township, and he was formerly township assessor and has at all times
proved conscientious and capable in the discharge of the duties devolving upon him. Both
he and his wife are communicants of the Lutiieran church, in whose teachings are found
the principles which govern their conduct.
GEORGE E. McCLURE.
Tlie natural resources of the country surrounding Minot have offered splendid oppor-
tunities for the acquirement of wealth, for the district is rich in its mineral deposits, in
Its agricultural possibilities and in its chances for commercial development consequent upon
the other two. George E. McClure is operating profitably in the coal fields of the state
as treasurer and general manager of the McClure Coal Company, miners and wholesale and
retail dealers in coal. He was born in Chisago county, Minnesota, May 5, 1877, a son
of Samuel and Eleanor (Warner) McClure, the former bom in the north of Ireland, while
the latter was a native of the state of New York. The father, who was a lumberman, went
202 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
to Minnesota at a very early day, establishing his home there before the city of Minneapolis
was founded. He continued to engage in tlie lumber business there until his death, which
occurred in 1911. He had long survived his wife, who died in 1889.
George E. McClure was the fourth in their family of five children and in the high
school at Stillwater, Minnesota, he completed his education. When about eighteen years
of age, or in 1895, he entered the employ of an insurance firm in Minneapolis, with which
he continued for about eighteen months, when he became an employe of the Foley-Beau
Lumber Company, accepting a situation in the yards. He gradually worked his way
upward in that connection, being advanced to the position of general manager and salesman.
For seven years he continued with the company and in 1903 removed westward to Minot,
being here emploj-ed as a salesman by the Vanderwalker Coal Company for about nine
months. At the end of that time he was made assistant manager of the company's business
and a year later the firm was reorganized under the name of the McClure Coal Company,
at which time Mr. McClure became manager and one of the stockholders. He is now
treasurer and general manager of the company, which is engaged in the wholesale and retail
coal trade and owns abo\it one thousand acres of land in this state, operating a mine twelve
miles west of Minot. The company also ow-ns valuable timber lands in British Columbia,
Oregon and Washington, also a mine at Sandcoulee, Jlontana, operating under the name of
the Nelson Coal Company. The McClure Company also operates a thousand acre farm near
Minot where the mining interests are being developed and likewise owns lands in California,
Oregon. Washington, North and South Dakota and Minnesota. Mr. McClure is also a stock-
holder and director in the Union National Bank of Minot, in the elevators at Devils Lake
and Lone Tree and in a mercantile business at Tasker, North Dakota.
In Novonber. 1901, Mr. McClure was married to Miss Anna L. Aldridge, who was born
in Minneapolis, a daughter of George A. and Adelia (Strong) Aldridge, the former a native
of Canada and the latter of Maine. The father was a millwright and engaged in the sawmill
business. He now makes his home in St. Paul, where he is employed by one of the large
lumber comiianies of Minneapolis. To Mr. and Mrs. McClure have been born two children:
Samuel A., who was born in July, 1902; and Gertrude Elliott, born in July, 1905.
Fraternally Mr. McClure is a Mason, belonging to the blue lodge at Milaca, Minnesota,
and is identified with the Elks lodge at Minot, and with the United Commercial Travelers
at Minot. His religious faith is that of the Episcopal church and politically he is an
independent democrat. He served as city clerk in Minnesota and he is the present ch.air-
man of the democratic committee of Minot. He puts forth earnest and cll'ective efiort for
advancing the interests of the party and stands for all that is progressive in citizenship.
His labors have been an important element in furthering the development of the section
of the state in which he lives, for the company of which he is a member is operating
extensively in utilizing the natural resources here afforded and has reached out through its
ramifying trade relations and business connections into various sections of the northwest.
At all points in his career Mr. McClure has been guided by the spirit of unfaltering enterprise
and, knowing no such word as fail, he has accomplished what he has undertaken.
.loIlX 1IAL\ lOUSON.
John Ilalverson, a furniture dealer of Valley City, who is winning advancement through
close application and a discriminating study of popular taste in the line of house furnish-
ings, was born in Hurdahl, Norway, on the 21st of February, 1854, representing a family
connected with farming interests in that land. He attended school in his native coiintry
and at the age of fifteen years came to America, infiuenced to this step by the fact that
liis older brother Peter came to the new world in 1869. Making his way across the country
to l^Iinnesota, ,Tohn Ilalverson spent the fir.st summer at Bloomfiidd and Dien went to
Albert Lea, where he attended school for two years, realizing that further educational
training would prepare him to cope much bettor with intricate problems and conditions
of business life. He then went to Preston. Minnesota, where he entered upon an apprentice-
ship to the drug trade, at which he worked for nine years, becoming acting manager of
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 203
the business at Fountain, Minnesota, and also the postmaster of the town, receiving
appointment to the office fn 1875, when he was twenty-one years of age. A the end of
five years' service as postmaster he removed to Twin Valley, where he was employed in a
general store for four years. In 188S he arrived in Valley Citj^ and secured a position in a
general store, in which he occupied a clerkship until 1900. In that year he was elected
register of deeds and his faithfulness and capability in office led to his reelection in 1902
and in 1904, followed by his retirement to private life in 1906. He then turned his attention
to the furniture business, buying out the store of his son-in-law, who owing to ill health
was obliged to remove to the west. He was first located on Fifth avenue but disposed of
his interest there in 1908 and is now conducting business on Main street, where he has a
large and well appointed establishment, carrying an excellent line of furniture of various
grades to meet the diversified tastes of his patrons. In addition he conducts an under-
taking establishment, having modern undertaking parlors on West Main street, and both
branches of liis business are growing and profitable.
Mr. Halverson was married to Miss Pauline Frederickson. a native of Norway and a
representative of a pioneer family of* North Dakota. She died in 1895, leaving six children:
Qara, the wife of E. S. Dobbin, of Hood River, Oregon; Henry, who for four years was
county treasurer and is now cashier of the Marion State Bank of Marion, North Dakota;
Minnie, a stenographer with a law firm at Hood River, Oregon; Adolph, an employee of the
Great Northern Railroad Company, with headquarters at Glacier Park; Louise E., a ba,nk
clerk at Hood River, Oregon; and Victor, who died in 1914, at the age of twenty-one years.
AH of the children, after attending the public schools of Valley City, became students in
the State Normal there. In 1900 Mr. Halverson was married again, his second union
being with Miss Tillic Hoel, a native of Norway, whose people also settled in North Dakota
in the period of its pioneer development. The children of the second marriage are Eugene
and Alice, both attending the Valley Cit\- State Normal.
Mr. Halverson is identified with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, the Benevolent
and Protective Order of EUcs and the Modern Woodmen of America and he not only ranks
as a progressive and representative merchant of Valley City but also as a substantial
citizen, for he has ever supported and endorsed those measures which are a matter of civic
interest and civic pride, seeking to promote the substantial growth and improvement of
his city and to uphold its standards of municipal integrity.
MARTIN G. MYHRE.
Martin G. Myhre, cashier of the First State Bank of W'alcott, is an important factor
in financial circles in that town and under his direction the business of the bank has
grown steadily. He has also represented his district in the state legislature. His birth
occurred in Winona county, Minnesota, January 30, 1874, and he is a son of Gilbert and
Malena (Torgerson) Myhre, both of whom were born in Norway, the former in 1846 and
the latter in 1849. Both the paternal and maternal grandfathers. Christian Hanson and
Hans Torgerson, died in Norway. The parents were married in that country but in 1869
emigrated to America and settled in Winona county, Minnesota, where the father purchased
land. He cultivated his farm there until 1878, when he removed to Dakota territory and
took up a homestead in what is now Richland county. North Dakota. He became the owner
of a section of land and also held title to other property. He passed away upon the
liomcstead in 1910 and his wife died there in 1915. They were Lutherans in religious
faith and the father was one of the organizers of the local church of that denomination.
He took a very active part in church work and his influence was always on the side of
right and justice. He cast his ballot in support of the candidates of the republican party
and was honored by election to a number of local offices. To him and his wife were born
eleven children, of whom eight are living and of whom our subject is the sixth in order
of birth.
Martin G. Myhre attended the country schools in the acquirement of his early education
and later attended the University of Minnesota, there pursuing a law course. He completed
204 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
his legal study at Columbian University, now George Washington University, in Washing-
ton, D. C, and in 1900 was admitted to the bar. He took the law course at Columbian
University at night as he was employed in the civil service at Washington during the day.
He practiced law for a few years but in 1907 returned to Walcott and engaged in banking,
entering the First State Bank as cashier, a position wliich he has since held. The
institution is capitalized for fifteen thousand dollars, has a surplus and undivided profits
of five thousand dollars and its deposits average one hundred and eighty thousand dollars.
Mr. Myhre has a detailed knowledge of banking and as he adds to this an understanding
of the principles of finance which underlie all banking practice, ho is a very efliicient
cashier, so directing the policy of the bank that it holds the confidence of the public and
at the same time returns good dividends to its stockholders, lie has prospered financially
and owns a large farm and also has other real estate interests. He began his independent
career without capital and the prosperity which he now enjoys is the direct result of liis
enterprise and business ability.
In March, 1904, Mr. Myhre was married to Miss Julia Fossum, a daughter of Andrew
Fossum, who came to Dakota in 1871. He located upen a farm and is still engaged in its
operation. He is also president of the First State Bank. Mr. and Mrs. Myhre have two
children: Gladys, who is nine years of age; and Arnold, six years old.
Mr. Myhre is a republican and has taken an active part in politics. He has not only
held a number of local offices but in 1914 and 1915 represented his district in the state
legislature, proving an able working member of that body. He is identified with the
Lutheran church and fraternally is connected with the Masons and the Jlodern Woodmen.
He is widely known throughout Richland county and is highly esteemed and respected.
JUDGE N. C. YOUNG.
Judge N. C. Young, practicing at the bar of Fargo as a member of the firm of of Watson
& Young, has won recognition as one of the. leading attorneys of the state. He also has
other important business connections and is accounted a forceful and resourceful man. He
was born January 28, 1862, in Jlount Pleasant, Iowa, a son of Charles S. and Joanna E.
(Williams) Young, both of wliom were natives of Ohio, where they were reared and married.
Soon afterward they removed to Henry county, Iowa, traveling through Chicago with an
ox team and proceeding across the Illinois prairies until they reached their destination.
Mr. Young purchased land in Henry county and there engaged in farming for a long period
but later in life retired and removed to Tabor, Iowa, where he passed away in the year 1910.
His widow survives and yet makes her home in Tabor. Mr. Young was at one time mayor
of the city and was very prominent in the community in which he resided.
Judge Young, reared in Iowa, pursued his education in Tabor College, in Iowa City
Academy, and in the Iowa State University, in which he pursued a classical course and was
graduated in law in 1887, winning the degiees during his student days of Bachelor of Arts,
Master of Arts and Bachelor of Laws.
On the day following his graduation Judge Young was married to Miss Ida B. Clarke, of
Iowa City, who was also graduated from the State University in that year and won the
degrees of Master of Arts and Bachelor of Philosophy. She had three sisters who were
alumnae of the State University, two of whom gained valedictorian honors, while all three
were members of the Phi Beta Kappa. Mrs. Young has been a frequent contributor to the
literature of North Dakota, writing a number of poems and songs. Slie is one of the state's
most able, cultured and accomplished women. She served for two terms as president of the
State Federation of Women's Clubs and is now president of the "North Dakota Association
Opposed to Suffrage."
Following tlieir marriage Judge and Jlrs. Young estublishcd their home at Bathgate,
Xorth Dakota, where he entered upon the practice of law, remaining in that city for eleven
years. In August, 1898, he was appointed to succeed Judge Corliss on the supreme bench and
in November of that year was regularly elected supreme court judge for a term of six
jears. In 1904 he was reelected without opposition for a six years' term but resigned his
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 205
office to enter upon the private practice of liis profession on tlie 15th of August, 1906. He
also served as state's attorney of Pembina county from 1S91 until 1895. Following his
elevation to the bench he removed his family to l-'argo in 1S9S in order that his children
might have the educational advantages to be secured in that city. Upon resigning from the
supreme court he entered into a law partnership with J. S. Watson and has since been his
associate in active practice. He stands as one of the foremost members of the North Dakota
bar and his practice is now extensive and of an important character. He is remarkable
among lawyers for the wide research and provident care with which he prepares his cases
and upon the bench he proved himself the peer of the ablest members of the court of last
resort. His decisions indicate strong mentality, careful analysis, a thorough knowledge and
an unbiased judgment. Aside from his professionel connections he has important banking
interests in the western part of the state, being president of one bank and vice president of
two others.
Judge and Mrs. Young have become the parents of three children, Laura B., who was
graduated from the University of Iowa with the degree of Bachelor of Arts, is now the wife
of C. W. Spaulding, cashier of the Citizens State Bank at Streeter, North Dakota. Horace
C, who won the B. A. degree upon graduation from the University of Iowa and took a partial
law course there, spent some time in his father's law office, was admitted to the North
Dakota bar in 1914, and is now located at Bowman, North Dakota, as a member of the firm
of Scow &, Young. Dorothea is a graduate of the Newton School for Girls at Boston, Massa-
chusetts, and also of the New England Conservatory of Music at Boston and is now engaged
in professional concert work.
After resigning from the supreme bench, Judge Young was appointed president of the
board of regents of the North Dakota State Universit}' and so continued until 1914. In 1907
he was elected to the presidency of the university but declined the honor. He has always
figured prominently in support of educational work and for years served as a member of the
school board of Fargo. He also seeks the progress of his community and state and he and
his family hold membership and take an active interest in the Congregational church. Fra-
ternally he belongs to Bathgate Lodge, F. & A. M., and has attained the thirty-second degree
of the Scottish Rite in Dakota Consistory. He is also a member of the Country Club and of
the Commercial Club of Fargo. His interests are broad and varied, touching many of the
activities which affect the welfare of the community and of the commonwealth. His influ-
ence has been a potent force in upholding the political and legal status of the state and in
advancing its material, intellectual and moral progress.
PETER WESTLUND.
Peter Westlund, of Stanley township, Cass county, who owns five hundred and fifty
acres of excellent land, was born in Sweden on the 15th of November, 1846, a son of Peter
and Mary (Ingebretson) Westlund, who were lifelong residents of that country. They were
the parents of five children, all of whom are living.
Peter Westlund passed the days of his boyhood and youth under the parental roof
and received his education in the public schools. In 1869, in early manhood, he came to
America and made his way to St. Paul, Minnesota, where he worked for the Great
Northern Railroad Company on a gi-avel train. Later he became a brakeman on the
Northern Pacific Railroad and was in time promoted to conductor. He remained with that
company for ten years, but in 1879 he removed to Cass county, North Dakota, and located
upon his present home farm, which is situated on section 5, Stanley township. He has
erected fine buildings upon the place and otherwise improved it. He has invested in
additional land, his holdings comprising five hundred and fifty acres, from which he
receives a good income. He also owns stock in the Farmers elevator at Horace and in the
creamery at Fargo.
In 1881 Mr. Westlund was united in marriage to Miss Enga Niquist, also a native
of Sweden. She passed away in February, 1907, and was laid to rest in the Horace cemetery.
She was the mother of five children, as follows: Emma, deceased; Hilma, at home;
206 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
Ephraim and Oscar R., both of whom arc college graduates; and Agnes, who is attending
normal school.
Mr. Westlund is a republican in liis jjolitieal belief and lias served as school director
for si.\teen years, doing much in that time to advance the interests of the public schools.
He came to this country a poor young man but through taking advantage of the opportunities
here oll'ered he has gained financial independence and is recognized as one of the substantial
and valued citizens of Cass county.
KEV. WILLIAM C. HUNTER.
Rev. William C. Hunter, of Minot, has entered upon a period of rest after long years
devoted to the work of the Presbyterian ministry. He was born at Woodburn, in County
Antrim, Ireland, March 27, 1850, a son of Alexander and Mary (Einlay) Hunter, who were
also natives of that localitj-, where the father followed the occupation of farming. Both
passed away in Belfast, Ireland.
In a family of eight children Rev. Hunter is the fifth in order of birth. He attended
school at Carrick, Fergus and Glasgow, Scotland, pursuing the arts course in Glasgow Univer-
sity. He prepared for the ministry by a three years' course in the Chicago Theological
University, which confened upon him the degree of Bachelor of Divinity. Long before he
prepared for the ministry, however, he had started out in the business world to provide for
his own support. At the age of si.xteen he was an assistant in a grocery store and was thus
employed until he entered college at the age of twenty-two years. Following his three years'
college course he engaged in the grocery business in Glasgow as a commission merchant for
about eight years and it was on the expiration of that period that he crossed the Atlantic
and located in Toronto, Canada, after visiting his brother in Scotland, Canada, for a short
time. In the former city he entered the employ of James Barton's Sons and a year later he
went to Chicago, where he entered upon his theological course, having determined to devote
his life to the ministry. Following the completion of his studies he was ordained in the First
Congregational church of Ch:* igo, of which the distinguished divine, Dr. Goodwin, was then
pastor. Having thus qualified for the ministry Rev. Hunter went to Garden Bay, in the
upper peninsula of Jlichigan, and engaged in preaching in tliat locality for more than two
years, during which period he assisted in organizing three churclics there and was also instru-
mental in building a manse. He afterward returned with his family to Illinois, where he
took charge of two churches, one at Brighton and another at Kemper. He also supplied
the Greenville church for a time, residing there for about two years, and on the 7th of Feb-
ruary, 1891, he came to North Dakota, settling at Sanborn, where he engaged in preaching,
also having charge of two out stations for two years. He next removed to Wheatland, North
Dakota, and accepted the pastorate of the Presbyterian church at that point, continuing his
labors there for more than three years, at the end of which time he removd to Minot in IS'IG,
having received a call from the Presbyterian church of the latter city. About the same time
he received calls from the churches at Bottineau and Dickinson, but decided to make Minot
his home and for more than six years continued his pastoral labors at Minot, Burlington and
Logan. In 1902 he resigned his charge in Minot, but continued his work at Burlington, at
Logan and at other points, doing general missionary work. He organized churches at Surrey,
Burlington and Bowbells and assisted also in organizing a church at Logan. To that depart-
ment of ministerial work he directed his energies imtil 1900, when he went to Montana to
accept the pastorate of a church at Terry, the county seat of Custer county. While thus
engaged he assisted in organizing a chiirch at Mildred, Montana, and one at Fallon. His
residence in Montana covered a period of three years, at the end of which time he returned
to his home in Minot in 1912 and since then has lived practically retired from the ministry.
His home is a beautiful commodious residence, which he erected, and he also owns a quarter
section of land near Minot and a half section in Montana which he has rented.
On the 25th of September, 1879, Eev. Hunter was united in marriage to Miss Helen
Galloway, who was born at Kilmarnoch, Ayrshire, Scotland, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs.
Michael Galloway, who were also natives of Ayrshire, whence they removed to Glasgow,
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA , 207
wlieie they reared their family. The father there engaged in business as a boot and shoe-
maker and was also a salesman, selling the product of his own factory. He developed a
business of large proportions, conducting four stoves in Glasgow, his enterprise and diligence
winning him a place among the foremost merchants of that city. Both he and his wife are
now deceased. Mrs. Hunter was one of the eldest in a large family and was educated at
Glasgow. By her marriage she has become the mother of four children. Jennie M. is the
wife of Harold Lamming, a mail clerk, who has charge of a car on the Great Northern Kail-
road and resides at Grand Forks, North Dakota. Mr. and Mrs. Lamming have become the
parents of four children: Edith, Dorothy and Jean, all at home; and Dora, who died in
infancy. Edith Ann, the second daughter of the Hunter family, is the wife of Reno L. Hay-
ford, editor of the Minneapolis Tribune, and they have one child, Helen Louise. Ernest M.
G. is an assistant in the hospital at Medical Lake, Spokane, Washington. Mabel, the youngest
of the family, is the wife of F. L. Wetch, a bookkeeper in the Northern Telephone oflice and a
resident of Minot.
Rev. Hunter gives his political support to the republican party, but has never been an
aspirant for office. He has long been an active member of the Masonic fraternity and was
the first master of Terry Lodge, No. 74, F. & A. M., at Terry, Montana. He is now affiliated
with Minot Lodge, of which he was secretary for one term, and with the Royal Arch
chapter, in which he was high priest for a year. At the present time he is worthy patron of
the Eastern Star, to which Mrs. Hunter also belongs, and he was formerly identified with
the Woodmen of the World and with the Yeomen. Mr. and Mrs. Hunter still hold member-
ship in the Pre-sbyterian church and Mrs. Hunter is a member of the Ladies' Aid Society.
Even in his youth Rev. Hunter never lightly regarded the duties and obligations which
devolved upon him, but conscientiously performed every task assigned him and as the years
advanced he thoughtfully considered and studied the questions of life. It was this that
helped him to take up the work of the ministry, wherein his labors have been of far-reaching
eflFect, for his influence proved an uplifting force in the lives of many and his teachings
carried home to the minds of his hearers the basic principles of the gospel.
MATHEW LYNCH.
Mathew Lynch, of Lidgerwood, has played an important part in the business and agri-
cultural development of Richland county and has also been a leader in political affairs, having
represented his district in the state legislature. He is president of the Farmers National
Bank and is the owner of a great deal of valuable farm land. A native of Wisconsin, he was
born near Berlin on the 26th of November, 1S57, and is a son of James and Adeline (Perkins)
Lynch. The father, who was born in Ireland, came to the United States in early manhood
and after his removal to Wisconsin followed farming, although he had been a wagon maker
in Ireland. He purchased government land, which he developed and improved and which he
still owned at the time of his death. He was a democrat in politics and was a communicant
of the Roman Catholic church. His mother also came to this country, emigrating after her
husband's demise. The mother of our subject, who was born in Germany, came to the United
States in girlhood and her marriage occurred in New England. She became the mother of
seven children, of whom six are living and of whom our subject is the fifth in order of birth.
Mathew Lynch received his education in the common schools of Wisconsin, but left
home when still a boy, as his mother had died. In 1ST9 he became a resident of Richland
county, North Dakota, and took up a homestead and tree claim, proving up on both. While
living in Wisconsin he had worked as a farm hand and had thus gained valuable knowledge
concerning agricultural work which enabled. him to operate his own farms successfully. After
cultivating his land in Liberty Grove township for a number of years he removed to Wynd-
mere in the spring of 1886 and there engaged in general merchandising in partnership with
W. H. Morgan. The firm subsequently started a branch store in Lidgerwood and successfully
conducted both enterprises. In 1888 Mr. Lynch bought out the interest of Mr. Morgan and
he and Mr. Rickert continued as partners until 1893, when our subject purchased Mr.
Rickert's interest and continued the business until 1908, when he sold out, but again pur-
208 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
chased the business, January 1, 1913, and still conducts the same. He organized the Lidger-
wood State Bank, which was later known as the Lidgcrwood National Bank and which sub-
sequentl}' bought out the Farmers Bank, and it is now conducted under the name of Farmers
National Bank. Ho is president of the institution, which is capitalized at lifty tliousand
dollars, has a surplus of ten thousand dollars, and average deposits of three hundred and
nine thousand dollars. The bank holds the confidence of the public and its business has
grown steadily. Jlr. Lynch keeps in close touch with all of the departments of the bank
and the success of the institution is in no small measure due to his excellent judgment and
knowledge of business conditions. He owns seven quarter sections of land in Richland and
adjoining counties, from which he derives a handsome income. He is now a man of independ-
ent means, but he had no property save his team and prairie schooner when he drove here
from Berlin, Wisconsin.
On the 30th of August, ISSS, at Sibley, Iowa, !Mr. Lynch was married to Jliss Mary
Maher, a native of Wisconsin. They have four children. Francis Leo is living on a claim in
Canada and is engaged in the machinery and land business. Fraternally he is a member of
the Knights of Columbus. .James William is also living on a claim in Canada. Mathew
Hoyt, who graduated from St. Thomas College of St. Paul and who devoted one year to the
study of law, is now employed in the Farmers National Bank at Lidgcrwood. He is likewise
a member of the Knights of Columbus. Mary Irene is still in school.
Jlr. Lynch is a republican and casts his ballot in support of the candidates and measures
of that party. He has taken an active part in politics, and was appointed postmaster of Lid-
gcrwood, February 1, 1890, serving four years. He was elected to the state legislature in
November, 1898, and after serving one term was appointed postmaster by President Mc-
Kinley, February 1, 1900. After serving four years he was reappointed by President Roose-
velt in 1904 and again in 1908; and by President Taft in 1912, serving until May 15, 1916.
He is a consistent member of the Catholic church and is also identified with the Catholic
Order of Foresters. All who know him respect him for his fine qualities of manhood, and
his personal friends are many.
MARTIN JACOBSON.
The history of Minot would be incomplete were there failure to make reference to
Martin Jacobson, and in its unfolding his history will present many points of interest and
many lessons worthy of emulation. He was born at Ridgeway, Iowa, November 17, 1863,
the son of Jacob and Esther (Hanson) Knudson, both of whom were natives of Norway.
In early life, however, they came to the new world and were married in Iowa where for
many years the father engaged in farming and both he and his wife died and were buried
on the old homestead in that state. The father died in 1903 when he was eighty years of
age and the mother passed away in 1912 at the age of eighty-seven.
Martin .Jacobson was the sixth in order of birth in their family of seven children.
He was reared in Iowa when the district was a pioneer locality and he pursued his edu-
cation in a log school house near his father's place. But his opportunities in that
direction were somewhat limited and he has had to depend upon the school of experience
for many of the lessons which he has learned. He early began work in the fields and
continued to assist in the cultivation of the old home place until he was eighteen years of
age when his father sold the farm to Mr. Jacobson's brother. At that time Martin
Jacobson came direct to North Dakota, arriving in the year 1882. He worked one sum-
mer for .John ililler, who was the first governor of the state, and later he returned to Iowa
and rented a half section of land near Ridgeway, carrying on farming on his own account
although but nineteen years of age. He continued to develop that place for about four years
and when twenty-two years of age he loaded five horses in an emigration car and again
came to North Dakota. He unloaded the car at Buckston and drove two hundred and fifty
miles to his present homestead, eight miles west of Minot. Settling thereon he took the
preliminary steps toward developing the place. The following winter he returned to Iowa,
married and then brought his bride to his home. Five children were born on that ranch
MARTIN JACOBSON
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 211
where the family resided for eleven years, the father devoting his energies to general
farming. On the expiration of that period he removed to Minot, but still continued the
operation and supervision of his ranch and is now farming sixteen hundred acres devoted
to the raising of small grain. In the season of 191.5 he threshed twenty-seven thousand
bushels of gi-ain. He is one of the most extensive farmers of his part of the state and
one of the most ])rogressive business men. He has about seventy-five head of Short-
horn cattle; sixty head of horses; three hundred head of hogs; and three hundred full
blooded, Partridge Wyandotte chickens.
On removing to the city Mr. Jacobson engaged in the hardware business and enjoyed
a large trade for four years; Almost from the beginning such was the volume of his
business that he employed more than twenty people and in 1905 he had an entire traiij-
load of hardware and machinery billed for Minot with instructions from the Great
Northern Railroad Company to operate the train as he wished. In 1906 he received an
entire carload of strap hinges. His' business brought him very gratifying profit but
eventually he sold out to two of his employees who formed the firm of Fugelso & Jacob-
son. In 1902 he built the opera house, a modern structure the front of which is occupied
by the Union National Bank. He continued in the machine business until 1914 and he
assisted in organizing the Union National Bank of which he was the first vice president.
He has now disposed of most of his interest in that bank but still has important commer-
cial interests in the city. His labors have been most valuable and effective in promoting
the upbuilding of the town, his work being attended by far-reaching and beneficial results.
On the 1st of January, 1887, Mr. Jacobson was married to Miss Annie Kittelson
who was born at Ridgeway, Iowa, on the same day as her husband and they were baptized
together, attended sdiool together and on the fiftieth anniversary of their birth each
weighed one hundred and seventy-one pounds. Her parents were Albert and Aagaat
(Mogen) Kittelson who were born in the same place in Norway. Both Mr. and Mrs. Jacob-
son's parents were children together and came to America about the same time, the
two families living about three-quarters of a mile apart. Mrs. Kittelson died when her
daughter w-as about six months old. Her father was never active in politics but did much to
further religious work, holding office jn the church and acting as trustee at the time the
Augsburg Seminary in Minneapolis was built.
To 3Ir. and Mrs. Jacobson have been born six children. Karl II., born October 19,
1887, married Luella Henry and resides in Opheini. ilontana, where he is engaged in the
lumber business and operates an electric light plant fifty-five miles from the raib-oad.
Chester J., born in February, 1889, is now at home. He attended Shattuck Military Acad-
emy and as a member of the football team won the championship for Minnesota. Alletie
Christina was graduated in both vocal and instrumental music from the Minneapolis
School of Music with the class of 1913. Mildred Almira, who was graduated from the State
Normal School of Minot in 1914; is. now a teacher in the Minot school and is a great favorite
in social circles. Alton Leroy is taking a high school course and is a member of both the
basket ball and football teams. A'ernon Malcolm is also a high school pupil in Minot.
Mr. Jacobson is iirominent in Masonic circles, belonging to the blue lodge, chapter
and commandery of Minot. to the consistory at Grand Forks and to the Slystic Shrine.
He is also active in the Sons of Norway. He belongs to the Norwegian Free church, and he
it was who planned the jnesent church edifice in Minot. He has been the prime mover
in its improvements and has had charge of the annual lutfisk supper for several years.
In politics he is a republican and when but twenty-five years of age was elected county
commissioner, being the youngest' ever chosen for that position in his county. For more
than twenty years he has served on school boards, first at Burlington and afterward at
Minot, and acted as chairman of the teachers committee. He is chairman of the build-
ing committee of the new high school at Minot, which is to cost three hundred tliousand
dollars. The plans are an embodiment of Mr. Jacobson's ideas, his broad experience and
natural ability being of great value. For four years he was a member of the state senate
and he left the impress of his individuality upon the legislation enacted during that
period. For two years he was a member of the state normal school board and the normal
buildings in Minot were erected largely after his plans. At the present time he is a
member of the library board and for many years he has been a trustee of the church.
212 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
His own educational advantages were extremely limited and recognizing the value of an
educational training he has taken an active and lielpful part in the development of all
educational institutions and interests of this part of the state. In fact there are few
public movements for the benefit and upbuilding of community or commonwealth with
which he has not been allied and his labors have been most helpful.
In 1904 Mr. Jacobson built his present residence which is one of the most commodious
and modern in Minot. Among the homes more recently built in the city there are none
that will rank higher in equipment or in finish. The halls are finished in quarter-sawed
oak wliile tlie interior of every room is finished in bird's-eye maple of fine quality. The
kitchen and pantries are commodious and the dining room is not onlj' beautiful but very
extensive in size. The rooms are so constructed tliat covers may be laid for very large
parties such as frequent tlie Jacobson home, for the members of the family are social
leaders. Mr. Jacobson's first interest is always his family and their happiness, money
being a secondary consideration. In 1907 Mr. Jacobson issued a calendar made from a
picture of himself, his wife and six children mounted on eight of his fine, highbred race
horses, expending the sum of three hundred and fifty dollars to have this calendar made.
Many of these pictures are to be found in various parts of the United States in the homes
of their friends expensively framed. Mr. Jacobson sent one of these calendars to Presi-
dent Eoosevelt and challenged the president with a wager of one thousand dollars to race
one mile family against family. He received a personal letter from the president express-
ing his appreciation of the calendar but the challenge was not accepted. There is no
phase of public progress with which Mr. Jacobson has not been connected, from making
the plans for the state normal school and public library buildings to shaping the legisla-
tion affecting the welfare of the commonwealth. In all things he has been actuated by the
spirit of enterprise and progress and guided by sound common sense, a quality which is
too often lacking. Both he and his wife are in splendid health, being remarkably young
in appearance which they attribute to the fact that for ten years they have slept on a
splendid open sleeping porch which is one of the adjuncts to their home. They believe that
fresh air has been tlie tonic that has warded oflT the burden of years. Mr. Jacobson has
many enthusiastic admirers, his friends and contemporaries in business recognizing his
worth, and the course that he has pursued should serve as a stimulus to tliose who may
have to depend upon their own resources for advancement and success.
JUDGE HERODOTUS H. TAVLOK.
Judge Herodotus H. Taylor, judge of the county couit of Sargent county, was born in
Troy, Spencer county, Indiana, November 35, 1856, a son of Green B. and Christine (Fisher)
Taylor. The father was a river man and in 1870 removed to Evansville, Indiana, where he
operated a line of steamboats on the Ohio and Mississippi rivers for many years. In 1883 he
came with his son, Judge Taylor, to North Dakota, settling in Sargent county, in that sec-
tion which became Taylor township, being named in honor of the father. He secured a
quarter section of government land, upon which he resided until his death in 1900, after which
his remains were taken to Evansville for interment. His political allegiance was given to
the republican jiarty and in matters of citizenship liis attitude was ever one of loyalty and
progressivcness. His wife died during tlie boyhood of flieir son Herodotus, who was one of a
family of eight cliildren: Alice, James, Elizabeth and Timo\ir T., all now deceased; Herodotus
H.; Lola and Homer, wlio have also passed away; and Green B., living in Taylor township,
Sargent county, whither he removed with his father and brother.
In early boyhood Herodotus H. Taylor entered the public schools of Evansville, passing
through consecutive grades to his graduation from the high scIlooI. Subseqiiently he was
employed in a commission house for two years and for three years he was engaged in farm-
ing, two years of that time being spent in Kentucky and one year in Indiana. As previously
stated, he came to North Dakota in 1883 and secured a quarter section of land in Taylor
township, Sargent county. Tlie journey was made to Lisbon by rail, from wliicli [loint he had
to take his things by wagon freight to his farm, a distance of fifty miles, for no railroad had
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 213
been built into Sargent county at that time. Not a furrow had been turned nor an improve-
ment made upon his place, but with characteristic energy he began the development of his
property and for sixteen years was engaged in the cultivation of about a section of land.
He afterward disposed of his farm and removed to Forman, where he retired from active
business cares. He had won a substantial measure of success through his well directed
efi'orts, but he could not be content without some occupation or pursuit, for indolence and
idleness are utterly foreign to his nature. After serving in the oilice of register of deeds for
six years he established a bank at Cogswell in 1904, calling it the Sargent County State
Bank, of which he became the cashier and one of the directors, so continuing for about eight
years. He then went to Oakes, where he was connected for a time with the First National
Bank and in the meantime sold his interest in the bank at Cogswell. In his business affairs
he has enjoyed an unsullied reputation for reliability as W'ell as determination and enterprise.
On the 20th of January, 1895, Judge Taylor was married to Jliss Minnie L. Burns, a
native of Michigan, born near Six Lakes. Removing to North Dakota, she was married in
this state, and they have become the parents of three children : Mildred, a graduate of the
high school; and Vivian and Florence, who are attending school.
Judge Taylor belongs to Golden Fleece Lodge, No. 31, A. F. & A. M., of Forman, and
Ivanhoe Cammandery, of Lisbon. He gives his political allegiance to the republican party and
in 1S98 was elected on that ticket register of deeds of Sargent county, at which time he took
up his abode in F'orman, where he now makes his home. He retired from that office after an
incumbency of six years with the goodwill and conlidence of all concerned and in 1914 he was
elected to the office of judge of the county court and in 1916 again became a candidate with-
out opposition, a fact which indicates how excellent was the record wliich he made during his
first term in office. His course upon the bench has been in harmony with his record as a man
and citizen, characterized by thoroughness, by devotion to duty and by the utmost loyalty
to the trusts given to his care.
JAMES W. STITELER.
James W. Stitelcr, who is serving efficiently as cashier of the Farmers National Bank
of Lidgerwood, was born in Pennsylvania on the 20th of March, 1876. His parents, John C.
and Francis M. (Stewart) Stiteler, were born respectively in Indiana county, Pennsylvania,
on the 3d of April, 1846, and in Jefferson county, that state, on the 18th of April, 1848. The
paternal grandfather, William Stiteler, passed his entire life in Pennsylvania and the mater-
nal grandfather, James Stewart, died there. The parents of our subject were married in
Pennsylvania in 1875 and in April of the following year removed to Pcjiin county, Wisconsin,
wliere they remained until the spring of 1881, when they came to North Dakota and settled
on a claim near Fairmount, on which the father had filed in April, 1880. In 1883 he took up
a tree claim near Lidgerwood, to which he removed in 1887. He is a republican and takes
the interest of a good citizen in public affairs. He is a member of Lodge, No. 1093, B. P. O.
E., at Fergus Falls and also belongs to the Masonic order. He was a poor man when he came
to this state, but now owns a half section of excellent land and also holds title to valuable
town property. His wife passed away on the 25th of September, 1914, in the faith of the
Methodist Episcopal church, to which he also belongs. Our subject is their only child, but
they adopted a daughter, Lucille Anderson, who is married and is keeping house for her foster
father.
James W. Stiteler received a good education, attending the common schools and the
Lidgerwood higli school and thus preparing iiimself for the responsibilities and duties of
mature life. On beginning his independent career he worked as a farm hand for some time,but
subsequently built the Farmers Elevator at Lidgerwood, of which he assumed charge in July,
1906, and which he conducted for four years. He then resigned that position and entered the
Lidgerwood National Bank as bookkeeper, remaining there until January 10, 1911, when he
became cashier of the Farmers Bank, now known as the Farmers National Bank. The insti-
tution has a capital and surplus of sixty thousand dollars and its average deposits are three
hundred thousand dollars. He thoroughly understands the routine of banking practice and
214 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
displays sound judgment in deciding questions of policy that arise from time to time. He
lias so directed the allairs of the bank that it has gained the coniidencc of the public and
has paid good dividends to its stockholders.
In November, 1903, Mr. Stiteler was married to Jliss Christine M. ilurray, a native of
Pictou county, Kova Scotia, and they liave become tlio parents of four children: Frances
Kvelyn, John E. and Marion ,1., all of whom are in school; and Margaret L.
Mr. Stiteler casts his ballot in sui)port of the republican party and is at present serving
as a member of the city council. He is well known fraternally, belonging to Lodge No. 1093,
B. P. O. K., at Fergus Falls and to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, in the subordinate
lodge of which he has passed tinough all of the chairs and the grand lodge of which he has
attended as a delegate five times. His religious faith is that of the Methodist Episcopal
church, of which he is a member, and his life is guided by high standards of ethics.
JOHN M. HOLMEN.
John il. Holmcn is operating the old family homestead in Warren township, Cass county,
and is ranked among the progressive farmers of his locality. He was born on that farm,
September 2, 1878, of the marriage of J. J. and Martha Holmcn, both natives of Norway.
They came to the United States in the latter '60s and after residing in Minnesota for a few
years removed to Cass county, North Dakota, and located on the farm on section 24, Warren
township, where our subject now lives. The father erected a log cabin, which remained the
family residence for a number of years, but later he built an excellent farm dwelling. He
made many other improvements upon the place and brought his land to a high state of culti-
vation. He passed awaj' upon the homestead in 1910, but his wife is still living tlierc at the
age of seventy-six years. Three of their four children are living.
John M. Holmen was educated in the common schools and has always livid on the lionie
farm. He assisted bis father w-ith its operation until the latter's demise, since whicli time he
has had charge of the farm work. Tlie family owns three hundred and forty acres, which
our subject cultivates, and lie iiersonally holds title to one hundred and sixty acres on section
9, Stanley township. He follows modern methods of agriculture and his woU directed labor
is rewarded by excellent crops. He also raises high grade stock. In adililion to his~farni inter-
ests he is a stockholder in the Farmers elevator at Horace.
Mr. Holmen is a republican in politics, but has never sought nor desired ofliee. His entire
life has been spent in Cass county, and he is widely known and has many sincere friends, as he
possesses those traits of character which invariably command respect and win regard.
CARROLD L. BUTTLES.
Carroll! J,. I'littles, superintendent of the Riverside ccmeterj' at Fargo. North Dakota,
was born in Rochester, Minnesota, on the 10th of July, 1873, a son of Grin F. and Elizabeth
(Wright) Buttles, the former a native of New York state and the latter of Nebraska. The
father, who was a carpenter by trade, removed to Iowa in pioneer days and at the time of
the Civil war enlisted in an Iowa regiment, remaining at the front for four years. He was
maj-ried in that state and subsequently removed to Minnesota, whence in 1880 he came to
North Dakota, locating at Fargo. There he w'as in the employ of the Haines & Magill Eleva-
tor Company until his demise, wliidi occurred in 1884.
Carrold L. Muttles was reared under the parental roof and attended the public schools
in the acquirement of an eilucation until he reached the age of sixteen years. He then
became a wage earner, securing em|>loyment as a clerk in a grocery store. For liKccii
or si.xteen years he worked for T. E. Yerxa but subseiiuently engaged in farming for about
seven years. Since 1911 he has lieeii superintendent of the Riverside cemetery at Fargo
and has concentrated his energies upon the discharge of his duties in that capacity.
In 1897 Mr. Buttles was united in marriage to Jliss Ida Reed, of Jamestown, this
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 215
state, by wlioiu lio has two eliildreii: Geoi'ge, who is attending the Fargo high school; and
Frances, a grammar scliool student.
Mr. Buttles is a stanch adherent of the republican party, believing in the wisdom of
its policies. Fraternally he is identified with the ilodern Woodmen and the Royal Arcanum,
and both he and his wife hold membership in the Broadway Jlethodist Episcopal church.
IV AR SEIM.
Ivar Seim, who is part owner of and conducts the Blanchard Mercantile Company at
Blanehard, Traill county, was born in Norway, on the 3d of March, 1870, a son of Eric and
Elizabeth (Hamre) Seim, both natives of that country, where they still make their home.
To them have been born twelve children, all of whom are living, four residing in America
and eight in Norway.
Ivar Seim was reai-ed in his native land and attended the public schools in the acquire-
ment of his education but in 1888, when a youth of eighteen years, emigrated to America
and, making his way to North Dakota, located in Traill county. He worked as a farm hand
for some time, but in 1896 came to Blanchard and established what is known as the Blan-
chard Mercantile Company, of which he is part owner and which he manages. He under-
stands the business thoroughly and has built up a large and profitable patronage. The
excellence of the goods carried and the reasonableness of his prices have commended him to
the public and his business is one of the prosperous concerns of the town. He also owns
two hundred acres of land on section 13, Blanchard township, which is well improved and
which yields him a good return.
JOHN McGUIGAN.
John McGuigan, who is manager of the elevator at Chaflfce, owned by the Amenia &
Sharon Land Company, has had long experience in grain buying and is very efficient in his
chosen work. He was born in Ireland on the 1st of October, 1865, a son of Bernard and Susan
(Allister) McGuigan, the former of whom died in Ireland, while the latter is still living there
at the age of eighty-five years.
The subject of this review was reared under the parental roof and attended the schools
of his native country in the pursuit of an education. In the spring of 1886 he decided to try
his fortune in the United States and after reaching this country continued his journey west-
ward to Casselton, North Dakota. For a short time he worked as a farm hand, hut sub-
sequently farmed in partnership with his brother William, who had preceded him to the
United States three years. In 1895 John McGuigan became connected with the grain busi-
ness and was placed in charge of the Anderson & Gage elevator at Woods, Cass county. He
remained in the employ of that firm until they disposed of their elevator at Woods, after
which he became manager of the Farmers elevator at that place. Two years later he was
offered a position with the Amenia Elevator Company and for six months had the manage-
ment of their elevator at Langdon. In 1909 he was transferred to their elevator at Chaffee,
which is one of the most important elevators owned by the company. A great deal of grain
is handled there annually and the successful management of the business requires a thorough
knowledge of grain buying and sound judgment, qualifications wliicli Mr. McGuigan possesses
in an unusual degree. He and his wife own a half section of good land in Gill township and
he and his brother James hold title to another half section in that township, and his holdings
return him a substantial addition to his income.
In August, 1896, Mr. McGuigan was married to Miss Rebecca Smyth, of Lamour county,
North Dakota, and they have become the parents of two children, Mary and Ethel. Mr. Mc-
Guigan is connected with Casselton Lodge, No. 3, A. F. & A. M. ; Dakota Consistory, A. &. A.
S. R. ; and El Zagal Temple, A. A. 0. N. M. S. Both he and his wife attend the Presbyterian
church, to the support of which they contribute. As manager of the elevator Mr. McGuigan
216 IIISTOKY OF NORTH DAKOTA
is a factor in the commercial expansion of Chaffee, as the grain business is of great importance
throughout the state, and he seeks to promote the general welfare as well as to safeguard the
interests of the owners of the elevator.
OLE M. LIAN.
Olc il. Lian, a successful farmer of IJarnes township, Cass county, is one of the excellent
citizens whom Norway has given to the northwest. He was born on the 4th of May, 1864, a
son of Martin and Enger Lian, the former of whom is still living in tliat country, while the
latter has passed away.
Ole M. Lian is one of a family of five children, of whom four survive, and the days of
his boyhood and youth were passed in liis native country. In 1S83 he emigrated to the
United States and made his way direct to Kargo, Cass county, North Dakota, where lie worked
as a laborer for ten years. At the end of that time he rented six hundred and forty acres
of land, which he has since cultivated. He is energetic and practical and his labors yield liim
a good return.
In 1890 Mr. Lian was married to Jliss Beintina Moe, of Missouri, by whom he has two
children, Enger and Martin, both at home. Mr. Lian is a republican, but confinea his polit-
ical activity to the exercise of his riglit of franchise. He has been dependent upon his own
resources and the prosperity w'hich lie has gained is evidence of his enterprise and good
management. He is a member of the Lutheran church.
WILLIAM S. YOUNG.
William S. Young, actively identified with banking interests, was one of the organizers
of the First State Bank of Surrey in 1907 and has continuously been its cashier. Through
this and other business connections he has become widely known and is regarded as a valued
and representative resident of the northern part of the state. He was born in Leeds county,
Ontario, Canada, March 16, 1S68, and is a son of Eansom P. and Charlotte E. (Hales) Young,
who were also natives of the same locality, both born in 1844. The father nuide farming liis
life work and in the year 1880 crossed the border into the United States, settling near Grand
Forks, Nortli Dakota, where he continued to engage in general agricultural pursuits for a
number of years. He took up the study of veterinary surgery and began the practice of that
profession. He now spends the winter months in California and maintains his homo through
the summer seasons in Fargo, where he and his wife are now widely and favorably known.
William S. Young, the second in a family of seven children, began his education in the
schools of Canada, while later he continued his studies in Grand Forks and other towns of
North Dakota. At the age of fifteen years he began working for otlu>rs although he con-
tinued to live at home until he reached the age of twenty, when he accepted the position of
clerk in a hotel. Subsequently lie engaged in the hotel business on his own account, at Fargo,
North Dakota, continuing active along that line for five years. He next engaged in the pro-
duce commission business in connection with F. W. Peterson, of Fargo, with whom he remained
for six months, and during the succeeding year he conducted a real estate ofhce in Fargo. A
further progressive step brought him into the field of banking and in 1905 he organized and
opened the Farmers State Bank at Upham, North Dakota, which was later consolidated with
the Security State Bank of that place, Mr. Young acting in the capacity of cashier until 1906,
when he retired from that position to become one of the organizers and promoters of a bank
at Napoleon. He was active in the management and conduct of that institution for a year,
at the end of which time he wintlulrcw and became one of the foremost factors in the organi-
zation of the First State Bank at Surrey in 1907. He was chosen cashier of that institution
and has continuously served in that capacity to the present time. He is a stockholder, secre-
tary and trea.surcr of the Farmers Grain Association of Surrey and is interested in the Bond
Lumber Company of Minot, which operates eight yards in the state. He is likewise a
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 217
■director of the First State Bank of Bowbells and he is quite an extensive landowner, having
considerable farm land in North Dakota, giving his personal attention to the operation of a
farm near Surrey. His business interests have thus constantly broadened out and have
become of an important character, so that he is now one of the foremost merchants and
financiers of his part of the state. He is also a partner of L. C. Eby in the Eby &, Voung
Automobile Agency at Minot, North Dakota, whicli has the Buick agency for Northwest
North Dakota. He does everything in his power to advance public interests along the lines
of material development and intellectual and moral progress.
On the 7th of August, 1895, Mr. Young was married to Miss Jessie McBain, who was
born in Quebec, Canada, a daughter of David G. McBain, who was also a native of that place,
whence he removed to Winnipeg, where he engaged in general merchandising. He died in the
spring of 1897, having for several years survived his wife, who passed away in 1890. He
served as a member of the city council of Winnipeg although he was never ambitious to hold
public office, preferring to concentrate his energies upon his private business allairs. Mrs.
Young was the second in her father's family of six children and by her marriage has become
the mother of six children, Tessie May, Enid C, Norma Earl, Meredith McBain, Kayle M.
and William Gordon.
Jlr. Young is identified with several fraternal organizations, including the Masons, the
Knights of Pythias, the Foresters and the Ancient Order of United Workmen, and while at
Grand Forks he served as chancellor commander of the Knights of Pythias lodge. He belongs
to the Presbyterian church and politically is a republican, but prefers that his public service
shall be done as a private citizen rather than as an office seeker. He has, however, been town-
ship treasurer and is now a member of the board of education at Surrey and has served as
president of the board for several years.
In the work of the church he has been quite active, serving as trustee and treasurer,
and he was also treasurer of the fire department. That he is a man worthy of trust and enjoys
the confidence of the public is indicated in the fact that he has several times been called upon
to administer estates. Prompt, energetic and reliable, he possesses in large measure a fund
of common sense and keen business sagacity and through the exercise of these qualities has
been able to overcome all difficulties and obstacles which barred his path to success and along
the line of earnest, persistent labor he has gained the goal of prosperity.
ERNEST G. SASSE, M. D.
Dr. Ernest G. Sasse has gained a large and representative practice in Lidgerwood, Rich-
land county, and is one of the most up-to-date and progressive physicians in his part of the
state. He has never ceased to be a student of bis profession and through post-graduate work
and wide reading keeps in touch with the latest developments in medical science. He waa
born in St. Charles, Minnesota, on the 14th of November, 1869, a son of Gustav and Caroline
(Fitzner) Sasse, the former of whom was born in Landsberg-on-the-Warthe, Germany, in 1843
and the latter in Pilgrims Heim near Breslau, in 1841. John Sasse, the paternal grandfather,
was also born in Landsberg-on-the-Warthe, Germany, but in 1845 came to the United States
and settled upon a farm near Gloversvllle, New York. Subsequently he removed westward and
his demise occurred at St. Charles, Minnesota, in 1907. The maternal grandfather, Carl Fitz-
ner, was born in Pilgrims Heim, near Breslau, Germany, but became a resident of the United
States in 1849. He settled in Wisconsin and engaged in merchandising in West Bend, meet-
ing with gratifying success in business. He passed away in the Badger state in 1882.
Gustav Sasse was but a boy when he accompanied his parents to the United States and
he finished his education in this country. For a number of years he engaged in farming, but
later conducted a general store at Vienna, South Dakota, and, having accumulated a compe-
tence, he retired and moved to Eevillo, that state, where Mrs. Sasse passed away July 5,
1916. At the time of the Civil war he served in a Wisconsin regiment for three years, thus
aiding in the preservation of the Union. His religious faith is that of, the German Evangelical
church, and fraternally he is connected with the Ancient Order of United Workmen, while in
politics he is a stanch republican. To him and nis wife were born seven children: Caroline,
218 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
the will.' of Mi'lvin P. Xoble, of Revillo, wlio inns a diay line and conducts a coal business at
tliat place; Kincst G. ; Henry A., who is a druggist of Henry, South Dakota; Carl A., an
attorney and editor of the Veblin Advance at X'tblin, Soutli Dakota; Edward L., a druggist
of Vienna, South Dakota; Edith, wlio married James F. Ashbaugh, a bank cashier of Mur-
dock, ilinnesota; and Esther, the wife of Edward A. Wing, of Brookings, South Dakota, wlio
is a traveling salesman for the C. G. Kice Coal Company.
Ernest G. Sasse attended the public schools of Minnesota and of Henry, South Dakota,
and took his preparatory work in the high school at St. Charles, Minnesota. Subsequently
he completed a four j'ear's course in the State College at Brookings, South Dakota, which
institution conferred upon him the degree of Bachelor of Scifnce in 1896. Having determined
upon the practice of medicine as a life work, he entered the Medical College of Hamline Uni-
versity at Minneapolis, from which he was graduated with the M. D. degree in 1SU9. He first
located at Revillo, South Dakota, where he inacticed for four years, but in 1904 he removed to
Lidgerwood, North Dakota, where he reniained a similar length of time. He then went to
Montana and practiced at Bridger and Bearcreek, that state. In the spring of 1913 he
returned to Lidgerwood, where he has since remained and where he has gained an enviable
reputation as a capable and conscientious physician. Dr. Sasse also owns and operates the
Lidgex-wood Hospital, which is equipped with all modern appliances. He has taken post-
graduate work at London, England; Berlin, Gennanj'; and Vienna, Austria, studying abroad
during the greater part of the year of 1908, and he has also taken advanced work at San
Francisco and Chicago. He finds membership in medical societies of great benefit in keeping
in touch with the trend of medical thought and practice and is identified with the county and
state medical societies and the American iledical Association.
Dr. Sasse was married on the 10th of February, 1913, to Miss Sophia Pearson, who was
born in Lanarkshire, Scotland. They have become the parents of two children: Bruce, who
was born May 26, 1914; and Douglas, whose birth occurred July 11, 1915.
Dr. Sasse Is a republican in politics, but although he takes the interest of a good citizen
in public affairs he has never been an office seeker, his professional duties requiring his undi-
vided attention. Fraternally he belongs to the ^Masonic blue lodge and the Royal Areli chap-
ter and to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and in bis life exemplifies the principles of
fraternity at the basis of those organizations. He also holds membership in the Mitliodist
Eiiiseopal church, to the support of which he contributes and whose wo'k he furthers in every
way possible. He has not only gained recognition professionally, "but has also won the per-
sonal regard of those who have come in close contact with him, his salient characteristics
being such as invariably command respect and esteem.
E. D. ANGELL.
E. D. Angell, engaged in tlie real estate and investment business, has been a resident
of Fargo since August, 1881, and in the interim has taken a deep interest in the develop-
ment of the state. His business affairs have been conducted along large and growing lines
and he is now operating e.\tensively in real estate in Canada.
Mr. Angell is a native of Xew York, his birth having occurred in Lnpeer. Cortland
county, December 30, 1855, his parents being Erasmus D. and Sarah (Lake) Angell. both of
whom were natives of New York, where they spent their entire lives, the fatlur there
following the occupation of farming.
E. D. Angell is indebted to the public school sy.stem of tlic lOmpire state for the early
educational advantages which he enjoyed. He afterward attended the State Normal and
Training School at Cortland, the Cazenovia Siniinarv and the Syracuse University and was
graduated from the last named institution with the degree of Bachelor of Arts in the class
of 1880. He afterward taught for a year in the Soldiers Orphanage School in JIansfield,
Pennsylvania, and in 1881 sought the opportunities of the new and developing northwest,
making his way to Fargo, where he arrived in August. He spent a short time with a
threshing crew and subse(]neiit!y accepted a clerkship in the general store of Hubbard
& Parlin of Casselton, remaining with them, however, for only about a month. He next
E. D. ANGELL
L
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 221
went upon tlie road as collector for N. K. Hubbard, driving over Cass and Richland counties
when there were only trails through the country, roads having not yet been laid out. In
December of the same year he located permanently in Fargo and has since been engaged in
the real estate business. He has acquired extensive farm lands in both North Dakota and
in Canada, his larger operations in recent years having been in Canada. He is one of tlie
oldest real estate dealers in years of continuous connection with the business in Fargo and
in all that he does displays a spirit of enterprise that has carried him into important relations.
He has negotiated many extensive realty transfers and has gained a large clientage.
In 1889 Mr. Angell was united in marriage to Miss Jennie C. Burns, of Phelps, New
York, who was a university classmate. They had one son, who is deceased. Mr. Angell
gives his political allegiance to the republican party, while his religious faith is indicated by
his membership in the First Methodist church, in which he is serving on the board of
trustees and to which his wife also belongs. His business activity, his public-spirited citizen-
ship and his devotion to the general welfare combine to make Mi'. Angell one of the repre-
sentative and loading residents of Fargo. He has been associated closely with the city's
interests for a third of a century, his memory forming a connecting link between the primitive
past and the progressive present.
CHRIST PAULSON.
Christ Paulson, who is successfully engaged in farming and stock raising in Warren
townsliip, Cass county, is a native of Norway. His birth occurred November 12, 1848, and
he is a son of Paul and Carrie Paulson, both of whom have passed their entire lives in that
country. Two of their four children survive.
ChrLst Paulson received his education in Norway and remained there until 1877, when
he emigrated to the United States. For a year he resided in Houston county, Minnesota, but
in 1878 came to North Dakota and settled on his present farm on section 34, Warren township,
Cass county. In the years that have since intervened he has brought his place to a high state
of development and made many fine improvements thereon. Although he raises considerable
grain, he makes a specialty of stock raising and derives therefrom a good income. He has
purchased additional land from time to time and now owns four hundred and eighty acres.
In 1883 Mr. Paulson was married to Miss Eline Graalum, likewise a native of Norway,
and to their union have been born ten children: Nettie, who is at home'; Andrew M.; Aaguth,
the wife of Carl Olson; Otelia C. ; Oscar; Joseph, who is working at Cleveland, North Dakota
as operator; .Tarl, who is a clerk in Fargo; Louise; Richard; and Martha.
Mr. Paulson gives his political allegiance to the republican party and both he and his
wife are communicants of the Lutheran church. When he came to this country he was a
poor man, but he possessed energy and good judgment and by taking advantage of the
opportunities here offered he has gained financial independence.
FRED IvLINGER.
Fred Klinger, of Hill township, who has gained gratifying prosperity as a farmer, was
born in Germany on the 15th of June, 1850, a son of Frederick William and Beattie (Krue-
ger) Klinger, both of whom i)assed away in the fatherland. Our subject was reared at home
and acquired his education in the common schools. After his removal to the United States
in 1867 he spent about four months in the vicinity of Chicago, after which he removed to
Winnebago county, Wisconsin, where he remained for about twelve years, working as a farm
hand, after which he came to North Dakota, where he has since resided. For a year he
worked for a blacksmith in Buffalo, Cass county, but in 1880 he bought a relinquishment on
a homestead on section 4, Hill township, his present home farm. He has since purchased
additional land and nov ;wns three hundred and twenty acres, from which he derives a good
222 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
income, lie has made many excellent improvements upon his place and in 1903 he erected a
modern residence, which is one of the most attractive farm homes of the county.
In ISSS Mr. Klinger was married to Miss JCliza Berry, a native of Minnesota, and they
have become tlie parents of nine cliildren, of whom eiglit survive, Laura, Clara, Maria, Jlary,
Elizabeth, Anna, Adeline and Fred.
Jlr. IClinger is a liberal democrat in politics and when he deems that he can best serve
the public interests by so doing he votes independently. For about fifteen years he has served
as a member of the school board and during that time has been instrumental in advancing
the interests of the public schools. He belongs to tlie Modern Woodmen of America and his
religious faith is that of the Lutheran church, with which his family is also identified. When
he came to tliis country he liad no capital, but he was quick to see and take advantage of tlie
opportunities here oU'ered to tlie ambitious young man and as the years have passed his
resources have increased until he is now one of the substantial residents of his townsliip.
FRANIC W. PEARSON.
Frank W. Pearson, district agent at Fargo for the New York Life Insurance Company,
is a prominent representative of life insurance interests in his part of the state, is thoroughly
acquainted with every phase of tlie business and under his direction the interests of the com-
pany have been largely promoted. He has never allowed business cares, however, to prevent
his activity along the lines which lead to the uplift of the individual and the betterment of
the community and has long been regarded as one of the foremost members of the First Con-
gregational church and a factor in the moral progress of his community.
His life record had its beginning in Manchester, New Hampshire, on the 27th of July, 1856,
his parents being William S. and Sarah B. (Paige) Pearson, both natives of the Granite state
and representatives of old New England families. The ancestral line on the paternal side
can be traced back to England, whence a representative of the name came to the new world,
settling in Rowley, Massachusetts, in 1643. This was John Pearson, who established the first
cotton mill built on the western hemisphere. The corner post of the building was still stand-
ing in 1800, according to the New England ilagazine, when it was taken up and made into
foot rules. Timothy Jlorse Pearson, the great-grandfather of Frank W. Pearson, was a
soldier of the Revolutionary war, while William S. Pearson participated in the Civil war as a
Union soldier. Prior to becoming connected with the army he was foreman in the Stark cotton
mills at Manchester, New Hampshire, and after the cessation of hostilities he removed to
Detroit, Michigan, and became identified with the Detroit Safe Company as manager of one of
its departments, remaining in active connection with the business until 1884, when his
health failed and at the invitation of his son Frank he came to Fargo, making his home with
his son until his death in 1885. His wife survived him until 1000 and both were laid to rest
in Riverside cemetery at Fargo. In the maternal line the ancestry is traced back to Eng-
land and the first member of the family in the new world, John Paige, arrived in 1G38.
Frank W. Pearson acquired a common school education at Manchester, New Hampshire,
and at Detroit, Michigan. His father early decided that the son should be a mechanic and at
the age of sixteen years he was put to work at the plant of the Detroit Safe Company, in
the employ of which concern he remained for eight years. In 1880 he came to the west, arriv-
ing at Fargo on the 22d of June, bringing with him an introduction to J, B. Hall, the editor of
the Fargo Weekly Republican. Through the assistance of Mr. TIall he secured a position as
bookkeeper with the hardware firm of Stevens & Rolph, after which he was employed as book-
keeper by three different firms until the mid-winter of 1880-1, when he was made agent for
the Detroit Safe Company, which he thus represented for a number of year* in connection with
other work. In the summer of 1881 the Fargo Daily Republican was started and Mr. Pearson
was asked to take charge of the circulation department. Incidentally he was in the office
when the first edition of the paper was published and he bought the first copy that was sold.
This he subsequently presented to the State Historical Society. He continued with the
Republican in various capacities until 1892, at which time he resigned his position as city
editor and in June of that year became special agent at Fargo for the New York Life Insur-
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA ' 223
aiice Company. In ISflo he was made general agent of the company and has since retained his
connection with the company. One of the most interesting experiences that came to him dur-
ing his association with the Fargo Daily Republican was in representing that paper at Bis-
marck during the last territorial legislature, at which time he was thrown into daily personal
contact with Colonel C. A. Lounsberry, who was representing the Bismarck Tribune. The
Fargo Daily Republican was the first newspaper outside of Bismarck that received the first
routine report of the proceedings of the legislature and probably the personnel of that legis-
ture made it the strongest ever assembled at Bismarck.
In July, 1887, Mr. Pearson was united in marriage to Miss Emma Spotts, of Fargo, who
at that time was a teacher of music in the Fargo public schools. To them have been born
five children, as follows : Lillian M., the wife of Ralph Beard, who is a professor in the Oregon
State Agricultural College at Corvallis; and Alice G., Mildred, Glenna P. and William S., all
at home.
In his political views Mr. Pearson has always been an earnest republican, conversant with
the questions and issues of the day and studying the vital problems which continually confront
the country. His chief activity outside of business, however, has been along the line of church
work. He has been called the resident father of Congregationalism in North Dakota. Mr.
Pearson, and E. W. Judd now of Washington state, were the pioneers in founding the first
Congregational church in Fargo, which was the first church of that denomination in the state.
Mr. Pearson has ever since been associated therewith and is now a deacon in the church. He
was also the president of the Brotherhood of the church and in all lines of the church work
has been very active and helpful. Fraternally he is a Mason, belonging to the lodge, chapter
and commandery. In 1896 he was chancellor commander of the Knights of Pythias lodge and
was very active in the work of that organization during the '90s but has demitted. For
several years he was quite active in the Old Settlers Association work and served as secre-
tary under the presidencies of William H. White, Colonel W. F. Ball and Judge Charles A.
Pollock. With every phase of the pioneer development of the state Mr. Pearson is familiar
and has not only been an interested witness, but also an active cooperant in many of the
plans and measures which have had direct bearing upon the state's history. Although of
New England birth he is passionately in love with that part of the union "out where West
begins, where men make friends without half trying."
AUGUST NELSON.
August Nelson, who is recognized as a leading merchant of Harwood, Cass county, has
not only gained individual success, but has also contributed in no small measure to the com-
mercial growth and expansion of his town. He understands thoroughly the problems that
confront the retail merchant and has systematized the work of his store, securing the great-
est efllciency in its operation, and his policy of giving full value for the money received has
enabled him to retain custom once gained. He was born in Sweden, October 7, 1855, a son of
Nels and Maria Nelson, both of whom died in Sweden.
The subject of this review was reared and educated in Sweden, remaining in that country
until 1876, when as a young man of twenty-one years he emigrated to the United States,
having heard much concerning the favorable conditions here. He made his way to Vermilion,
South Dakota, and remained in that locality for about eight months, working as a farm hand
during that time. In the spring of 1877 he came to North Dakota and for seven years worked
on farms in Cass county, carefully saving his money with the purpose of buying land. He
became the owner of one hundred and sixty acres in Raymond township, that county, on which
he resided until 1907. when he turned his attention from agricultural pursuits to other lines
of activity. He removed to Harwood and bought a hotel, which he conducted for six years,
in the meantime establishing his present business, which he has made the leading mercantile
enterprise of Harwood. He buys his stock with the preferences of his customers in mind
and has made unfailing courtesy a part of the service which his store gives its patrons. He
still owns one hundred and sixty acres of excellent land in Raymond township and also has
stock in the Farmers Elevator Company of Harwood.
224 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
ill-. Nelson was married in 1884 to Miss Ida C. Wakeland, of Rayiiimul township, who,
however, was born in Sweden. Two children have been born to tliis marriage: Kniil, wlio is
manager of his father's store; and Jlinnie Christina, at home.
Mr. Xelson gives his political allegiance to the republican Jiarty, but has never had the
time nor inclination to take an active part in public affairs. He and his family are attiliated
with the Swedish Lutheran church, the work of which they aid in every way possible, and
their lives measure up to high standards of ethics, ilr. Xelson is known throughout Cass
county and all who have come in contact with him, whetln'r in business or social relations,
esteem him highly.
L. X:. WALLA.
L. C. Walla, who is one of the leading business men of Horace, Cass county, is a native
of Norway, born on the 19th of April, 1878. His parents, L. P. N. and Lottie (.Jensen) Walla,
were also natives of Norway, where they lived and died. Five of their si.v children survive.
L. C. Walla was reared in Norway and attended the common schools there. In 1898, when
twenty years of age, he came to the United States and made his way to North Dakota. For
five years he worked as a farm hand in Cass county during the summers, while the winters
were spent in attending college in Fargo. At the end of that time he became a clerk in a
store in Horace and was so emplo3'ed for five years, after which he went to McKenzie county,
this state, and took up a homestead, on which he resided for fourteen months. He now owns
four hundred acres of land in that county, all of which is improved. In 1908 he returned to
Horace and established a general store and also engaged in the lumber business, both of
which undertakings he is still conducting. He is thoroughly reliable and his business policy
has gained him a good custom. He is also agent for the Norwegian American Steamsliip line
and owns stock in the F'armers elevator at Horace.
In 1908 Mr. Walla was united in marriage to Miss Anna Olson, who was born in Norway,
a daughter of Hans and Martha Olson. The father is deceased but the mother is still living.
Mr. and ilrs. Walla have two cliililrcn, Angell and Martha.
Mr. Walla is a democrat but his business interests have left him no time to take a very
active part in public affairs. Both he and his wife are communicants of the Lutheran church,
the teachings of which arc the guiding principles of their lives. When he came to the United
States Mr. Walla had no capital but through industry and good management he has become
one of the substantial men of his town.
ELLEF IvNTJDSON MYHRE.
One of the leading mercantile enterprises of Valley City is the projierty of Ellef Knudson
Myhre, a self-made man whose well diiected energies have enabled him to advance steadily
toward the goal of success. A native of Norway, he was born at Hallingdal in October, 1856.
His father, Knute Storlie, also a native of that place, had various business connections and
held several local offices, serving for some time in a position similar to that of judge of the
probate court.
His son, F.llef Knudson Myhrc, the third in a family of nine children, spent his school
days in Norway and in 1873 came to America, being then a youth of seventeen years. He was
the second of the family to cross the .\tlantic, having been preceded by his brother, Ole K.
Myhre, who settled in Minnesota in 1872 and is now living at Nome, Barnes county. North
Dakota. On coming to the new world E. K. Myhre made his way direct to Minnesota, where
he devoted a year to farming and then began work at the painter's trade, which he had pre-
viously learned in his native land. He was thus employed until March, 1879, when he removed
to Fargo and in July of the same year came to Valley City, where he again followed his
trade until 1885. in which year he opened a store that he conducted until 1894. He then
turned his attention to the real estate and insurance business, which he followed until 1900,
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 225
when he was appointed postmaster and after four years' service was reappointed, so tliat he
occupied the position until 1908. He then again entered the real estate and insurance field
and was so engaged until July, 1911, when he organized the Farmers Mercantile Company,
Incorporated, of which he became secretary, treasurer and general manager. This is a gen-
eral store and the business has steadily increased, a liberal patronge being now accorded. In
1908 Mr. Myhre erected the building which is now utilized by the Farmers Mercantile Com-
pany, a two story and basement structure, twenty-five by one hundred feet, at the corner of
Main street and Third avenue.
In March, 1884, Mr. Myhre was married to Miss Ogot Mortrude, of Norway, whose
parents were Wisconsin pioneers. Their children are: Alma Malvena, the wife of Vern Gale,
connected with the postoffice at Valley City; Carl Albert, city engineer of Valley City; Clara
B., wife of Roger E. Lloyd; Ernest Oliver, who is car clerk with the Xorthern Pacific Rail-
road Company; Ruth Alvera, a teacher of domestic science in St. Cloud, Minnesota; and
Walter Howard, who is with his father in tlie store. The family is one of prominence in the
community, enjoying the high regard and friendship of many with whom they have come in
contact.
Mr. Myhre is identified with the Sons of Norway, the Modern Woodmen of America and
the Ancient Order of United Workmen. His political endorsement is given to the republican
party and his fellow townsmen, appreciating his worth and ability, have several times called
him to public oflice. He served for two terms as a member of the city council and three
times was elected county commissioner but at length resigned that position to accept the
postmastership. He has ever regarded a public oflice as a public tnist — and it is well known
that no trust reposed in E. K. Myhre is ever betrayed. He is always loyal to the cause which
he espouses, reliable in business, loyal in citizenship and straightforward in every relation
of life.
HENRY A. KLUVER.
Henry A. Kluver is well known in financial circles of Ward county by reason of his active
connection with the banking interests of Burlington, where he organized the First State Bank
in 1909 and has since served as cashier. He was born in Butler county, Iowa, November S,
1878, a son of Charles and Dora Kluver, both of whom were natives of Heidelberg, Germany.
They were married in that country and on coming to the new world settled in Butler county,
Iowa, at which time Cedar Falls was tiieir nearest market. They were pioneers of that
locality and experienced all of the hardships and privations incident to life on the frontier,
but lived to see many changes and a marked difference in conditions in that state, Avhere
both Mr. and Mrs. Kluver continued their residence imtil called to their final rest. While in
Germany Mr. Kluver served as a soldier in the Franco-Prussian war.
Henry A. Kluver was reared in a household numbering nine children, of whom he was the
youngest. He attended school in Iowa and was also a student at the Wesleyan University of
Lincoln, Nebraska, and at the Capital City Commercial College of Des Moines, Iowa, his
thorough training there received well qualifying him for his later duties in financial circles.
He was about sixteen years of age when he began providing for his own support. He worked
his way tlirough school and when he finished his high school education pursued a commercial
course. He afterward went to Butte. Montana, where he was employed by others, and later
he lemoved to University Place, Nebraska, where he worked his way througli the university by
tutoring. He was also employed in a clothing house on Saturdays. In the spring of 1906
he came to North Dakota and settled on a homestead in McKenzie county more to obtain a
needed rest than otherwise. In the fall of 1908 he removed to Burlington and in the spring
of 1909 organized the First State Bank, of which he became the first cashier. He is still l
serving in that capacity and the success of the institution is largely attributable to his close
application and sound judgment. He is likewise one of the partners in the .lohn son -Kluver
Lumber Company and is a stockholder in a number of outside corporations, while ids real
estate holdings include land in North Dakota and city property in Lincoln. He has rented
his farms in this state and devotes practically all his time to the banking business.
226 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
On the 28th of October, 1914, Mr. Kluver was united in marriage to Carrie Wallace
Johnson, a daugliter of James and Ida J. (Colton) Johnson, mentioned elsewhere in this work.
!Mr. and Jlrs. Kluver are members of tlie Presbyterian churcli and in polities Mr. Kluver is a
republican. He served on the board of education at Burlington for a number of years, a part
of the time as president, and his fraternal relations cover connection with tlie Masonic lodge
at Alinot. He has largelj' concentrated his time and eflorts upon his business allairs and his
sound judgment and enterprise are evidenced in his success. He is a self-made man and is
highly esteemed and respected in the city in which he makes his home.
NILS N. WALLA.
Nils X. Walla, who owned four hundred and forty acres of excellent land in Stanley
township, Cass county, was born in Norway, December 9, 1826, a son of Nils I. and Pernielia
(Christianson) Walla. His parents were also natives of Norway, where they passed their
entire lives. In their family were thirteen children but only two are now living.
Nils N. Walla was reared under the parental roof and attended the public schools of
Norway in the acquirement of his education. He continued to reside in that country until
1807, in which year he came to the United States. He first settled in Fillmore county, Minne-
sota, wliere he remained until 1874, when he removed to Cass county, this state. He settled
on<he land which is still owned by the family and at once began to improve his place, which
was then but a tract of raw prairie. His fii'st residence was a log cabin b\it a number of years
later he erected a good frame dwelling and he also made many other improvements upon
the place. The land is now under cultivation and the family derive therefrom a good income.
Mr. Walla owned four hundred and forty acres on sections 19, 20 and 30, Stanley township,
and gained financial independence.
In 1868 Mr. Walla was united in marriage, in Minnesota, to Miss Anna Johnson, who
was born in Norway, a daughter of Jolin and Karen (Christopherson) Johnson, who were
lifelong residents of Norway. Mr. and Mrs. Walla became the parents of twelve children,
five of whom are living, John, Anna, Karen, Benjamin and Nora.
Mr. Walla was a republican and for years served acceptably as school director and as
school treasurer. He was a member of the Lutheran church, to which his widow also belongs,
and his influence was always on the side of right and progress. He was over eighty-nine years
of ago when he passed away January 7, 1916, and he had the satisfaction of knowing that
his life was well spent, as he not only prospered financially but was also a factor in the
development of his community along lines of moral and educational advancement.
HANS T. HOGY.
Hans T. Hogy is a well known representative of the grain trade in Ward county, having
in 1905 established a grain elevator in Burlington, while at the same time he is proprietor of
a second elevator at Deslacs. His spirit of progress is manifest in an unceasing activity that
results in success. A native of Wisconsin, he was born at Viroqua, August 20, 1870, his par-
ents being Foster and Christie (Lermo) Hogy, both of whom were natives of Norway, where
tbev were reared and married. They came to America abo\it 1807, settling at Viroqua. and
in that locality the father engaged in farming. Subseqiiontly he removed to Cyrus, Minne-
sota, and continued to engage in agricultural pursuits until his death in October, 1912. His
widow survived for only a few months, passing away in March, 1913.
Hans T. Hogy pursued his education in the district schools of his native county and in
the public schools at Cyrus, Minnesota, having removed to the latter state with his parents,
with whom he remained until he reached the age of twenty-two years, when his father gave
him eighty acres of land, also telling him to go to the barn and select the horse which he
wanted. Thus he started upon an independent business career and for seven years was
engaged in farming in ^Minnesota, after which he turned his attention to the grain business,.
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 227
which he followed in that state until 1905. Arriving in Burlington, North Dakota, in that
year, he became identified with the grain business there and is now operating the Farmers
Elevator. He has extended the scope of his business by taking over the elevator at Deslacs.
He is also engaged in the live stock business, having on hand two hundred and fifty head of
cattle. While he owns considerable land in North Dakota, he devotes the greater part of his
time to the grain trade, yet he feeds cattle extensively each year, employiaig men to cultivate
his land. He readily recognizes the salient points in a business transaction and so directs
his efforts that energy and determination have brought to him success.
In June, 1896, Mr. Hogy was united in marriage to Miss Indiana Lybeck, who was born
in Christiania, Norway, and during her early girlhood was brought to America by her parents.
She died in February, 1915, leaving two daughters: Myrtle, who is attending the State Normal
School in Minot; and Hazel, who is a pupil in the Burlington schools.
Mr. Hogy is identified with the Modern Woodmen camp at Burlington and with the Elks
lodge at Minot and his religious faith is evidenced in his membership in the Lutheran church.
His political allegiance is given to the republican party and his fellow townsmen have called
him to some local offices although he has never aspired to political preferment. He has
worked diligently to attain his present success and business standing, both of which have
been creditably won and place him with the leading citizens of Ward county.
A. F. BONZEE.
A. F. Bonzer, of the firm of Bonzer & Mathews of Lidgerwood, is not only a factor in
the business development of his town and county but is also very active in politics and in
public afl'airs generally. He was born in Clayton county, Iowa, November 30, 1863, of the
marriage of Joseph and Catherine (Blaha) Bonzer, both natives of Bohemia. The father
was born in 1813 and although Bohemian by birth spent thirteen years in Vienna, where he
received an excellent education. He was able to speak and write German, Bohemian and
English and was well informed on all subjects of general interest. In his youth he came
to the United States with his parents, both of whom died in this country. Follow^ing his
marriage he located in Clayton county, Iowa, where he purchased land from the government,
which he cultivated until 1883. In that j'ear he became a resident of Brown county. South
Dakota, and at once took up a homestead, upon which he resided for twelve years. He then
again removed westward, making his way to Oregon, where he remained for a year, after
which he located in Idaho. Still later he came to North Dakota and passed away in this state
in 1903. He was a democrat in politics, and his religious faith was that of the Catholic
church. He was successful financially and also gained the warm regard and the sincere
respect of all who came in contact with him, for his life measured up to high standards. To
him and his wife were born six children, five of whom are still living, namely: Mrs. Lizzie
Johnson, a resident of Cresco, Iowa; John, a retired farmer residing in Hecla, South Dakota;
Henry, who is engaged in the hardware business in Hettinger, North Dakota; A. F.; and 0. W.,
who is manager of a hardware store in Lidgerwood.
A. F. Bonzer received his education in the common schools of Iowa and during his boy-
hood and youth devoted much time to assisting his father with the farm work. He engaged
in farming independently in Iowa and South Dakota but in 1893 he removed to Lidgerwood,
North Dakota, and established a meat market. For ten years following this he also bought
and shipped cattle, becoming one of the large stock dealers of the county, but at the end of
that time he sold out and erected a large brick building, in which he engaged in the mer-
cantile business, conducting a general store successfully for five years. On disposing of that
business he entered the real-estate field but for six years divided his attention between a
number of business interests. Since 1908, however, he has devoted practically his entire
time to the land and loan business as a member of the firm of Bonzer & Mathews. They buy
and sell land outright, operating chiefly in the southern part of North Dakota, and they
have gained a gratifying measure of success. Mr. Bonzer owns a great deal of valuable farm
and city property and is also a director in the Farmers National Bank of Lidgerwood and the
Farmers State Bank of Mantador, this state.
228 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
Mr. Bonzer was married in 1887 to Jliss Haiinali Dinger, wlio was born in Indiana and
is a (laughter of Polycarp Dinger, who removed his family to South Dakota in 1882. For
a number of years he was actively engaged in farming but is now living in Lidgerwood. Mr.
and Mrs. Bonzer have five children : Cora, the wife of Walter Truax, cashier of the Genesee
State Bank of Geiieseo, this state; Clarence, who is assisting his father; Mamie, the wife of
Adolph Kotehan, cashier of the State Bank of Kermit, North Dakota; Arthur, residing in
Genesee; and Archie, who is attending St. John's school at CoUegcville, Minnesota.
The parents attend the Baptist church, but the children are members of the Methodist
Episco])al church. Mr. Bonzer is well known fraternally, belonging to Lodge No. 1093, B. P.
O. E., at Fergus Falls; the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, in which he has passed through
all of the chairs; and to the Masons. In politics he is a stalwart democrat and is recognized as
one of the leaders of his party in southeastern North Dakota. He has been called to a num-
ber of positions of trust and honor and has at all times discharged his official duties with
ability and conscientiousness. For seventeen years he served on the school beard and for
eighteen years he has been a member of the city council, of which he is now president, and
for six years, beginning with 1901, he was county commissioner. Still higliiM- honor came to
him when in 1912 he was elected to the state senate, defeating a strong republican candidate,
although the republican majority is normally three or four hundred. His has been a life
of intense activity, and his achievements are the more commendable in that he has depended
solely u))on his own resources since boyhood.
HAROLD THORSON.
A superficial view of the life record of Harold Thorson makes one feel that his career
is almost magical, but careful analysis of the course that he has followed shows that his
splendid success is but the direct, logical and merited reward of persistent, earnest labor,
keen discernment, judicious investment and unabating energy — qualities which in time have
made him one of the foremost bankers in the two states of North Dakota and Jlinneseta,
while he pays the largest income tax in the former state. Back of this is an interesting story
— the story of a youth of foreign birth who sought the ojiportunities of the new world and
started out in business circles on this side the Atlantic with a caj)ital of good health, vigor,
determination and ambition. He was born on the Dovre farm in Nordre Aurdal Brcstegjeld,
Valdrcs, Norway, November 16, 1841, and when a youth of sixteen he bade adieu to friends
and native land and started for the new world, believing that he might have better business
opportunities on this side the Atlantic. On his waj' to this countrj' he was temporarily
struck snowblind while crossing Filefjeld to Laerdal. As a passenger on the sailing vessel
Gauge Rolv, which weighed anchor at Bergen, he spent five weeks before landing at Quebec.
From that point he made his way to Manitowoc, Wisconsin, and in a land unhampered by
cast or class he put forth his initial effort toward attaining success. Realizing the value of
education as a business asset, he spent three years as a high school pupil in Manitowoc and
for four years he was employeil as a cli'rk. thus gaining mercantile experience and at the same
time adding largely to his knowledge of the Knglish language and of American methods and
customs. During that period he practiced the strictest economy until his savings amounted
to a sum sullicient to enable him to embark in business on his own account.
Mr. Thorson chose Jlinnesota as the field of his labors and in 1865 opened a store at
Northfield. All through the period of his connection with trade interests there he was study-
ing business conditions and opportunities in this state, watching the trend of development
and progress, and in 1889 he gave demonstration of his notable prescience and foresight in the
purchase of a large tract of land at Klbow Lake. It was this that caused him to transfer his
business activities to northwestern Minnesota and North Dakota. Dr. .1. Paul (loode of the
University of C'liicago, economist, whose study of the resources of the country has perhaps
been as comprehensive as that of any other man, says that the best possible investment is rn
farm land, and so it proved in the case of Mr. Thorson, who began cultivating his land on
an extensive scale, bringing the tract to a high state of improvement and thus greatly
enhancing its market value. It was also a logical step to real estate dealing and further-
HAROLD THORSON
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 231
more he became a factor in financial circles by identifying himself with banking. From point
to point in that field he lias extended his efforts until he is now president of a large number
of banks throughout the northwest. He pays the largest income tax in North Dakota.
After residing at Elbow Lake for a long period Jlr. Thorson went to St. Paul, where he
lived retired for three or four years, but idleness is utterly foreign to his nature and
this life of inactivity did not please him. In 1906, therefore, he removed to Drake, North
Dakota, where he purchased the Merchants State Bank. He today controls twenty-five dif-
ferent banks in North Dakota and Minnesota, of most of which he is the president, and
lie is regarded as one of the foremost representatives of banking interests in tlie two states.
He is a stockholder in the American National Bank and the Northern Savings Bank, both of
St. Paul, being a director in the former and vice president of the latter. His holdings of farm
lands are also extensive and he likewise has large investments in city property in St. Paul
and elsewhere.
On November 22, 1864, Mr. Thorson was united in marriage to Miss Karen Lajord, by
whom he had eight children, four of wliom still survive, as follows: Thor D., bank examiner
for his father; Clara J., who is the wife of L. H. Ickler, vice president of the American
National Bank of St. Paul; Cecil Lenor, at home; and Henry Lewis, who is employed in the
Merchants State Bank of Drake. The wife and mother passed away in 1913.
Mr. Thorson has been a generous contributor to church and charitable work and he was
one of the incorporators and one of the largest contributors to the support of St. Olaf College
at Northfield, Minnesota, during tlie days when it was struggling for existence. To secure
tlie location of the scliool at Northfield he made a personal contribution of two thousand
dollars and assisted in raising six thousand more among tlie influential men of the city. He
procured tlie old public school buildings and lots in tlie town for twenty-five hundred dollars
and he picked out the present beautiful site on Manitou Heights as a place for the permanent
home of the institution. He was the principal member of the building committee at the
time of the erection of the main building and he bore the expense of tearing down the old
buildings on the original site and removing the materials and putting them into what is
known as the old Ladies' Hall on the hill. He contributed ten thousand dollars toward the
erection of Mohn Hall and has never ceased his active interest in the school. He has been
equally generous in support of various other beneficient projects. His friends regard him as
a commercial genius. He himself modestly disclaims this, but it is a self-evident fact that his
ability has brought him to a position far in advance of the great majority of his fellowmen.
One of the secrets of his success is that he has noted and utilized opportunities that others
have passed heedlessly by. Another element in his progress has been his untiring diligence
guided by sound judgment and expressed in honorable business methods. He is a great man
not because he has attained wealth but because he has maintained that even balance which
enables him while conducting mammoth business interests to recognize and meet Ins duties
and obligations in other connections, judging life from a sane, practical standpoint and making
the most of his opportunities not only for tlie benefit of himself but also for the benefit of the
northwest.
PETER JOHNSON.
As North Dakota is primarily an agricultural state its wealth and development are due
chiefly to the labor of its progressive and enterprising farmers, among whom is numbered
Peter Johnson, who owns and operates three hundred and twenty acres of excellent land in
Raymond township, Cass county. He was born in Sweden on the 24th of May, 1860, of the
marriage of John F. and Margaret (Hendrickson) Johnson, both of whom died in their native
country.
Peter .Johnson was reared at home and in the acquirement of his education attended the
common schools of Sweden. In 1882, when a young man of about twenty-two years, he
determined to try his fortune in the United States and accordingly made his way to North
Dakota, where he was employed during the summer as a farm hand. The following winter
he went to Duluth, Minnesota, and did teaming and worked in the woods until spring, when
232 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
he returned to this state. A year later he bought a relinquishment on a tree claim in Steele
county, which he sold three years later. He then returned to Sweden and for a year and
a hall' remained there but at the end of that time came again to the United States and pur-
chased his present home farm, which comprises one hundred and sixty acres on section 10,
Raymond township, Cass county. He also owns one hundred and sixty acres on section 11
and cultivates the entire three hundred and twenty acres, his labors being rewarded by large
crops, tlie sale of which yields him a good profit. Although he is now one of the substantial
citizens of his township he not only had no capital when he came to North Dakota in 1882
but was in debt for his passage money. He worked to such good purpose and managed hia
affairs so well that on his return to Sweden five years later he had sixteen hundred dollars
saved. In addition to his valuable farm he owns stock in the Farmers elevator at Ilarwood
and the Farmers elevator at Prosper.
In 1888 Mr. Johnson was married in Sweden to Miss Margaret Peterson, by whom he had
four children, two of whom are living, John and Peter E., both at home. The wife and
mother died in 1894 and six years later Mr. Johnson married Miss Edla Sandstrom. who
was born in Sweden, a daughter of Lars and Johanna (Peterson) Sandstrom. Her father is
still living in Sweden but her mother has passed away. Mr. and Mrs. Johnson have become
the parents of three children, Herbert, Sigma and Fern.
Mr. Johnson is a stalwart republican and for a number of years was constable and for
several terms was a member of the school board, his services proving very satisfactory in
those capacities. He is identified with the American Yeomen and the Scandinavian lodge,
and both he and his wife are communicants of the Swedish Lutheran church, which indicates-
the principles which govern their conduct.
PETER S. GOLBERG.
Peter S. Golberg, a farmer residing in Stanley township, Cass county, has manifested
those qualities of energy and faith in the future which are characteristic of the west. He
was born in Wisconsin on the 12th of May, 1852, a son of Svcnd and Segri (GoUings) Gol-
berg, both of whom were born in Norway. In 1847 they emigrated to the United States and
for five years they made their home in Wisconsin, but in the latter part of 1S32 they ri'rnoved
to Fillmore county, Minnesota.
Peter S. Golberg, the eldest in a family of thirteen children, was educated in Minnesota
and grew to manhood in that state. In 1877 he came to North Dakota and located upon a
farm on section 8, Stanley township, Cass county, where he is still living. He is a stock-
holder in the Farmers Elevator at Horace.
In 1881 occurred the marriage of Mr. Golberg and Miss Hannah Olson, who has lived in
Cass county since she was seven years of age. Mr. Golberg is a stalwart democrat and has
taken quite an active part in polities. For one term he served as county auditor and for one
term as county commissioner, proving an able and conscientious official. He is at present a
member of the township board. Fraternally he is connected with the Modern Woodmen of
America and both he and his wife are communicants of the Lutheran church. His salient
characteristics are such as have always won respect and esteem and he has many warm per-
sonal friends.
AUSTIN GRAY.
Austin Graj-, who was connected with business interests in a niiniber of North Dakota
towns, was especially well known as a hotel man and won a competence which enabled him
to build in 1905 a commodious home at Leeds and to retire from active life. However, he
was not long permitted to enjoy his leisure as his death occurred on the 10th of April, 1906.
He was born in De Kalb county, Illinois, November 30, 1846, of the marriage of Norman and'
Anne (Ledden) Gray. The father was probably born in Vermont and the mother was a native-
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA ' ■ 233
of Ireland. He devoted his life to farming and never removed farther we,st than Illinois
although he visited his son Austin in North Dakota.
Austin Gray, who was the eldest of a family of six children, attended school in De Kalb
count}', Illinois, and completed the work of the grammar grades. He remained at home until
twenty-one years of age and in the meantime learned the blacksmith's trade. On attaining
his majority he went to Georgetown, Colorado, where he remained for a number of years, after
which he removed to Chicago. He was employed in machine shops there for a considerable
period but about 1880 removed to North Dakota and located in Dickey county, eight miles
northeast of Oakes. He resided upon his farm until after his marriage, when he engaged in
the hotel business at Leeds, this state, at the request of his wife, who had for a number of
years conducted a hotel at Oakes. They remained the proprietors of the hotel at Leeds for
twelve yeiirs and at length, at the solicitation of traveling men, changed the name from the
Commercial Hotel to the Hotel Gray. On selling out their interests there they removed to
the site of Ryder and, purchasing a tract of land, founded the town. Mr. Gray engaged in
the general mercantile business there, conducted a hotel and was also the first postmaster of
the town. He played an important part in the development of Ryder along material and civic
lines and was one of its most influential citizens. After remaining there for two and a half
years he returned to Leeds, where he erected a fine residence and retired from the cares of
business. He retained title to the hotel at Ryder and he and his wife also purchased a hotel
at White Earth and Mrs. Gray is still interested in both properties. He passed away April
10, 1906, and his demise was widely regretted, for he had a host of warm friends.
Mr. Gray was married on the 13th of January, 1893, to Mrs. Anne (Barrett) Galvin. She
was born in New York harbor on a sailing vessel on which her parents, Daniel and Mary
(Barrett) Barrett, natives of County Clare, had crossed from Ireland to the United States.
On removing to this country in 1853, they located in Pennsylvania but subsequently removed
to New York, where the father engaged in construction work as a contractor on the New York
& Erie Railroad from Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania, to Clean, New York. Later he removed with
his family to Rochester, Minnesota, and for eighteen years engaged in farming in that
locality. On the expiration of that period he removed to North Dakota and after living for
a time on the present site of Wimbledon, went to .Jamestown, where he passed his last days,
dying in 1899. His wife was called bj' death in 1891. They were the parents of fourteen
children, of whom Mrs. Gray is the fifth in order of birth. In 1866 she was married to Michael
Galvin, a native of Ireland, whom she met in New York state. He engaged in railroad work
there for some time but on the outbreak of the Civil war enlisted in Company D, One Hun-
dred and Fifth New York Volunteer Infantry, for six months. On the expiration of his term
of service he reenlisted for three years and served with his command until he was taken
prisoner at the battle of Shiloh. He was confined in Andersonville prison for six months but
was released at the close of the war. He then went to Salamanca, New York, but later
removed to Rochester, Minnesota, where he remained utnil his death on the 10th of April,
1883. To him and his wife were born seven children, namely: William Henry, deceased;
Mary Elizabeth, the wife of John Boyle, a railroad man living in .Jamestown; Daniel, who
died when nine years old; Ann, the widow of F. E. Wood, of Leeds, this state; Grace L., the
deceased wife of H. A. Jones, of Minnewaukon, North Dakota; and .John N. and Michael B.,
both of whom have passed away.
Mr. Gray was a stanch advocate of the democratic party and served as a member of the
board of education of Leeds for many years. Fraternally he belonged to the Workmen and
Woodmen. He was a communicant of the Roman Catholic church but did not confine his
interest in moral and religious effort to his own denomination, for he did more than any
other resident of Leeds for the advancement of the Protestant churches of the town. His
broadmindedness and generosity found expression in many ways and there was no project
calculated to promote the public welfare that did not receive his heartiest support and coop-
eration. He was a man of sterling integrity, of unusual business ability and of marked
determination and those who were closely associated with him held him in the highest regard.
There were many who profited by his help and who owe their success to his timely and
unostentatious aid. His demise was indeed a loss not only to his family and intimate
friends but also to his community.
Mrs. Gray stills owns the hotel at Ryder and has an interest in the hotel at White
234 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
Earth and in 1907 removed to licrtliold, wlioro she erected tlie Hotel WiiUher, whicli she
owns and conducts. The hotel building is a two story modern brick structure which is
equipped for the comfortable aeconuuodation of sixty guests. It is considered one of the
best hostelries between Minot and Williston and is up-to-date in every respect. Mrs. Gray
gives the closest personal attention to the conduct of the business and neglects nothing
afFccting the comfort of her guests. She has built up a large patronage and is an important
factor in the business life of her community. She is characterized by enterprise, sound judg-
ment and public spirit and holds a high place in the esteem of all who know her.
GUST NYSTROM.
Gust Nystrom is widely known and highly respected throughout Cass county, to the
agricultural development of which he has contributed not a little. He owns four hundred
and eighty acres of well improved and highly cultivated land and he was the organizer and
is the president of the Farmers Elevator at Horace. A native of Sweden, his birth occurred
on the 4th of January, 1858, and his parents were Peter and Nettie Nystrom, wlio were life-
long residents of that country. They were the parents of six children, four of whom are
still living.
Gust Nystrom was reared at home and acquired his education in tlie jtublic schools of
Sweden, where he remained until 1882. In that year he came to America and, making his
way to the west, found employment as a carpenter in St. Paul. After a year he came to
North Dakota and took up land in Richland county, where he resided for seven years, after
which he sold that place and purchased his present home farm on section 24, Warren
township, Cass county. He has improved the place with fine buildings and has made it one
of the best developed farms in his township. He has also purchased additional land and now
owns four hundred and eighty acres, all of wliich is improved. He was the organizer and is
the president of the Farmers Elevator at Horace, a progressive and prosperous concern.
In 1885 Mr. Nystrom was united in marriage to Miss Amelia .Jensen, a native of Norway,
who came to America in 1881. She passed away in 1913 and was laid to rest in the
Horace cemetery. She was the mother of ten children, namely: Alma, the wife of Elmer
Holman; Ida; Adolph; Amelia, who is teaching school; Jane, who is a graduate of the
Aakers Business College at Fargo and who is now a bookkoopor in the Scandinavian Bank
of that city; George; Lydia; Walter; Robert; and Ernest.
Mr. Nystrom is a stanch republican and docs all in his power to secure the victory of
that party at the polls. He has served on the town and school boards, discharging the duties
devolving upon him in a capable manner. He is a member of the Lutheran church, of which
he is one of the trustees, and for ten years he has served as superintendent of the Sunday
school. He is one of the leaders in all movements seeking the moral advancement of his
community and is likewise interested in everything that tends to promote its material
development.
AXEL TRANGSRUD.
Axel Trangsrud is a retired farmer residing at No. 91.') Tenth avenue. North, in Fargo,
and the record of his life indicates what may be accomplished when determination and energy
are utilized as the basis of success. He was born in Norway on the Snth of October, 1859,
and is a son of Hans and Bertha (Torderud) Trangsrud, who came to the United States in
1870 and after a year spent in Mitchell county, Iowa, removed to North Dakota, where they
secured a squatter's claim on the eastern side of the Sheyenne river on section 14, Normanna
township, Cass county. This the father afterward homesteaded when the homestead law
went into effect and there he and his wife continued to reside throughout their remaining
days, his atterttion being given to the further development and improvement of the farm.
Axel Trangsrud was reared on the old homestead and acquired a district school educa-
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 233
tion. His opportunities in youth, however, were limited but he received ample training in
farm work, early becoming familiar with the best methods of tilling the soil and caring
for the crops. After reaching man's estate he remained at home for a number of years,
givuig his attention to the operation of the home farm, and in 1895 he turned his attention
to merchandising in Davenport, Cass county, where he remained until 1899, when he sold his
interests there and returned home. In 1901 he purchased a half section of land in Pleasant
township but never lived upon that farm, renting it to a tenant for eight years, after which he
disposed of the property. About 1907 he came into possession of the old homestead compris-
ing two hundred acres of rich and productive land and a year before he had acquired one
hundred and sixty acres from a brother's estate, which farm cornered on the home place.
Thus Mr. Trangsrud came into possession of three hundred and sixty acres of valuable farm
property and bent his energies to its further development and improvement, bringing his
fields to a high state of cultivation and annually gathering therefrom rich crops. He resided
upon this property until January 34, 1913, when he retired from active farm life and removed
to Fargo, where he now makes his home. He still remains a stockholder in the Farmers
Elevator Company at Kindred, is a stockholder in the Scandinavian American Bank of Fargo
and in the Kindred State Bank and from his investments derives a gi-atifying annual income.
As a companion and helpmate on the journey of life Mr. Trangsrud chose Miss Meta
Olson, a native of North Dakota, by whom he has two children, Howard and Alpha. He gives
his political allegiance to the republican party and for two terms has ably served as assessor
of Normanna township. Mr. Trangsrud is a member of the Sons of Norway and is one of the
well known pioneers of Cass county, to which he came in 1871. In the forty-five years which
have since elapsed he has witnessed many notable changes whereby a wild frontier district
has been converted into a populous and prosperous commonwealth. In keeping with the
onward march of progress he has so conducted his business affairs that success in substantial
measure has come to him.
HON. KNUTE S. EAMSETT.
Hon. Knute S. Eamsett, who has been active in framing state legislation as a member
of both the house of representatives and state senate and who still continues a leading
factor in political circles, is known in business connections as a most enterprising mer-
chant of Fingal and also as vice president of the Merchants State Bank. He was bom
near Madison, Wisconsin, April 29, 1854, and is a son of Siver K. and Britha (Johnson)
Eamsett. The father, who was born at Hedemarken, Norway, lived to the advanced age
of eighty-six years but the mother passed a-\vay at the age of fifty-five. Siver K. Eamsett
was a cabinetmaker by trade and in 1S48 crossed the Atlantic to the new world, settling
first near Madison, Wisconsin, where he worked at eabinctmaking and also at carpentering
and building. Later he went to Vernon county, Wisconsin, where he took up the occupation
of farming and there made his home throughout his remaining days.
Knute S. Eamsett was the second in order of birth in a family of eight children. He
mastered the elementary branches of learning in the district schools of Vernon county and
afterward graduated from the high school at Viroqua, AVisconsin, and attended the Wisconsin
State University at Madison and the C. C. Curtis Business College at St. Paul. His residence
in North Dakota dates from 1882, in which year he arrived in Bismarck and engaged in the
mercantile business as a clerk. Later he removed to Washburn, where he conducted a general
store and also filled the office of postmaster. He there continued until 1892, when he dis-
posed of his store at that point and removed to Fingal, where he established a general store
and has since carried on a business of creditable and gratifying proportions. He is likewise
the vice president of the Merchants State Bank and owns several business buildings as well
as residences and lots in the town of Fingal in addition to his own fine modern residence.
On the 35th day of July, 1888, Mr. Eamsett was united in marriage to Miss Bertha M.
Cumberland and their children are: Maurice S., a high school pupil; and Howell Le Eoy.
Mr. Eamsett gives his political allegiance to the republican party and his opinions carry
weight in political circles in this state. His fellow townsmen, appreciative of his ability and
236 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
liis public spirit, elected him their representative to the state legislature in I'JDU and in lUOO
he was elected a member of the state senate. In both houses he gave earnest consideration
to the vital questions which came up for settlement and supported various legislative meas-
ures which have become laws. In 1914 he was elected a member of the state central com-
mittee and still retains his membership therein. Fraternally he is a Knight Templar Mason
and also belongs to several other secret orders. He is a member of the Lutheran church and
is a man of high moral worth. He is of a genial and pleasing personality, is a man of ability
and has won substantial success. At the same time he has proven his capability and effi-
ciency in public ollice and he never allows private affairs to so monopolize his attention that
they exclude the faithful performance of his public duties. "
GUSTAVE W. NACK.
Gustave W. Nack, who is engaged in merchandizing in Embden, Cass county, is recog-
nized as an excellent business man and has built up a large and profitable custom. He was
born in Germany on the 20th of June, 1ST9, a son of Albert and Alvina (Bast) Xack, both
natives of that country, where they remained until 1886, when they brought their family to
the United States. They settled on a farm in Cass county, Xorth Dakota, where the father
passed away, but the mother is still living and now resides at Casselton.
Gustave W. Nack remained under the parental roof until he became of age and then
began farming on his own account. He was practical and progressive and his well diiected
labors were rewarded by fine crops, the sale of which yielded him a good income. He con-
tinued to farm until 1911, when he removed to Embden and entered the mercantile field, in
which he also succeeded. He carries a good stock of goods, selected with reference to the
needs of his community, and as his business methods are thoroughly reliable his trade has
grown steadily. *
In 1909 occurred the marriage of Mr. Nack and Miss Martlia Krucger, a native of Cass
county and a daughter of William and Barbara Krueger, pioneers of that county who came
to this state from Germany. Two children have been born to this union, Evelyne M. and
Murl G.
The republican party has a stanch adherent in Jlr. Xack and he takes a keen interest
in public affairs. He is now serving as postmaster of Embden and has demonstrated his fit-
ness for the office, discharging his duties with efficiencj'. He belongs to Casselton Lodge,
No. 3, A. F. & A. M., and is a Mason in deed as well as in name, exemplifying in his life the
beneficent spirit of the craft. He has resided in Cass county during the greater part of his
life and those who have known him since boyhood are his stanchest friends, a fact which
indicates his sterling worth.
ARTHUR L. PARSONS.
Arthur L. Parsons, an attorney of Lidgerwood, is recognized as one of the able mem-
bers of the bar of Richland county and has gained a good clientage. He was born in St.
Paul, Minnesota, on the 25th of August, 1873, a son of J. S. and Louise (Folsom) Parsons,
both of whom were natives of Maine. The father, whose birth occurred in 1840, died in 1915.
The mother, who was born in 1845, passed away in 1913. They were married in the Pine
Tree state, but in the '60s emigrated westward and located in Illinois, whence in 1870 they
removed to St. Paul, Minnesota, where the father engaged in the machine business. In 1899
they came to North Dakota and he took up land in Richland county. ITo met with gratify-
ing success and from time to time acquired title to additional land until at one time he
owned sixteen hundred acres. In 1903 he sold out and during the remainder of his life lived
retired. In politics he was a stanch republican and he took a keen interest in public affairs,
being especially concerned for the welfare of the school system, serving for some time upon
the school board. He was a man of liberal education, a graduate of Bates College of Lewis-
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 237
ton, Maine, and his wide knowledge and sound judgment gave bim a position of leadership
in his community. To him and his wife were born six children, namely: Ottie, the wife of
W. J. Medland, a banker of Park River, this state; Arthur L.; Cleve M., an attorney of
Hettinger, North Dakota; Eoy, who is farming near Chinook, Montana; Stella, who is now
Mrs. Downing, residing near Velva, this state; and Ralph I., a wheat buyer living in Canada.
The Parsons family is of English descent but has been established in this country for a
number of generations. A great-great-grandfather of our subject participated in the Revo-
lutionary war.
Arthur L. Parsons received his elementary and secondary education in the schools of
•Geneseo, Illinois, graduating from the high school in 1891. He subsequently entered the
College of Law of the Minnesota State University, which conferred upon him the degree
■of LL. B. in 1896. He was admitted to the bar in Minnesota and also in North Dakota and in
the year of his graduation began the active practice of his profession at Lidgerwood, where
he has since remained with the exception of two j'cars, during which he was connected with
Emerson H. Smith at Fargo. He returned to Lidgerwood in 1907 and the confidence which
the general public has in his ability is evidenced by the large and profitable patronage which
he enjoys. He prepares his cases carefully and is convincing in the presentation of his argu-
ment before the court with the result that he hag gained a favorable verdict in most
instances. He practices in all the courts and stands high among his professional brethren.
In connection with his law practice he conducts an insurance business and writes many
policies annually.
In 1900 occurred the marriage of Mr. Parsons and Jliss Floy Goss, of Durand, Wiscon-
sin, by whom he has three children, Ruth, Dorothy and Arthur D.
Mr. Parsons is an adherent of the republican party and for two years was maj'or of
Lidgerwood, giving the municipality an efficient and businesslike administration. He has
been clerk of the school board during the entire period of his residence in Lidgerwood and has
also served as city attorney for several terms. His religious faith is that of the Baptist
ehurch, and fraternally he is connected with the Masons and the Woodmen, these associa-
tions indicating the rules which govern his conduct. He is not only a successful attorney,
but is also a public-spirited citizen and a man of unquestioned integrity, and all who have
come in contact with him hold him in the highest esteem.
FHANK M. JOHNSON.
Frank M. Johnson, one of the leading business men of Alice, North Dakota, is now
engaged in general merchandising but formerly devoted his time and attention to agricul-
tural pursuits, in which he was also successful. He was born in Iowa county, Iowa, on the
3d of .Tune, 1866, a son of Alexander P. and 5Iary (Wade) .Johnson, both natives of Peoria
county, Illinois, where they were reared and married. In 1853 they removed to Iowa county,
Iowa, becoming pioneer settlers of that part of the state. At the time of the Civil war the
father enlisted in the Union army, becoming a member of the Eleventh Illinois Cavalry,
under the command of Colonel Robert IngersoU. After the close of the war he returned to
Iowa and farmed there xuitil 1888, when he removed to South Dakota. Five years later he
came to North Dakota, locating in Sargent county, where he passed his last years. His
wife is still living and makes her home with her two sons, Frank M. and Thomas F.
Frank M. .Johnson attended the public schools in the pursuit of an education and during
his boyhood and youth gained valuable training in farming through assisting his father. On
reaching manhood he decided to follow the occupation to which he had been reared and for a
number of years was successfully engaged in farming in Sargent county. In 1913, however,
he came to Cass county and in partnership with his brother, Thomas F., is now engaged in
the mercantile business in Alice. They carry a well selected stock and have built up a large
and lucrative patronage, their reliable business methods commending them to the confidence
of the general public. They still retain their land holdings, owning seven hundred and twenty
acres in Sargent county.
Frank M. .Johnson casts his ballot in support of the democratic party, but has never
238 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
been an aspirant for office, finding that his private affairs require his entire time and atten-
tion, rte belongs to the Masonic order and in all relations of life strives to live up to the
high moral teachings of the craft, lie has not only won the respect of all who have come in
contact with him, but has also gained the warm personal regard of many.
P. J. ENGESETH.
P. J. Engeseth, engaged in the general practice of law at Minot, was born in Dane
county, Wisconsin, August 23, 1873, a son of John Engeseth, of whom mention is made
elsewhere in this work. He continued his education after leaving the common schools in the
Luther College at Decorah, Iowa, and in the University of South Dakota, in which he p>ir-
sued his law course, graduating in the class of 1904. He was reared to farm life and during
vacation periods throughout his college days he worked at farm labor in Wisconsin, thus
providing for the expenses of his university work. In 1901 he came to the northwest, settling
at Dell Rapids, South Dakota, where he remained until in the spring of 190S he came to
Minot. Here he entered upon the practice of law and with the exception of a year spent
in California has since continued an active member of the Minot bar, devoting his attention
to general practice and also making a specialty of collections and mortgage foreclosures. He
devotes his entire time to his professional duties and has made steady advancement in his
chosen field of labor.
On the 12tli of August, 1915, Sir. Engeseth was united in marriage to Miss Mabel
Johnson, a native of Painted Woods, North Dakota, and a daughter of .John A. .Johnson, who
is an agriculturist now residing in Painted Woods. In his political views Mr. Engeseth is
independent nor has he ever aspired to office holding. Fraternally he is connected with the
Elks Lodge, No. 10S9, of Minot, the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Knights of
Pythias. His attention, however, has always been largely concentrated uiioii his professional
duties and he early recognized the fact that industry is just as essential in law practice as
in any other field of labor. He has therefore closely applied himself to the work of preparing
his cases and does not enter the courts until well qualified to present his cause in the strong,
clear light of common sense and of sound reasoning.
JOHN I^. JONES.
Tlie life record of .John R. .Jones, of Hankinson, Richland county, should serve to spur the
ambition of those who are beginning their independent career, for from a poor boy he has
worked his way upward until he is now one of the leading capitalists of this section of
North Dakota. He is the largest land owner in Richland county, is president of the Farmers
& Merchants Bank of Hankinson, of the First State Bank of Rutland, the First National
Bank of Wyndmere, and of the Security State Bank of Jlclntosh, South Dakota, and is a
stockholder in many other banks in North and South Dakota, and also has many other
important business interests. Although the greater part of his time has been given to his
business affairs, he has not failed to cooperate with movements seeking the advancement
of his community along lines of moral and civic progress, and he is recognized as one of the
foremost citizens of his county.
Mr. Jones was bom in Winnebago, Wisconsin, on the 12th of August. IS.'jO, a son of
Evan and Margaret (Roberts) Jones. The father was born in Wales, but came to the
United States in his young manhood, locating in Wisconsin, where he was married to Miss
Roberts, also a native of Wales. He purchased land from the government as the section
where he settled was then largely undeveloped, and he devoted the remainder of his life to
operating his homestead. He was a republican in politics, and for years served as marshal
of Neenah, Wisconsin, making an excellent record in that office. His religious faith was that
of the Methodist Episcopal church. To him and his wife were born eleven children, of whom
our subject is the eldest and of whom ten survive.
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 239
John R. Jones received excellent educational opportunities and was graduated from
Ripen College, at Ripon, Wisconsin, in 1882. For some time he worked in lumber yards and
was subsequently superintendent of various mills in northern Wisconsin, but in 1886 he
removed to Hankinson, North Dakota, where he was connected with a corporation engaged
in the lumber and machinery business. At length he bought out the concern and has since
continued independently In those lines of business. He has succeeded beyond his greatest
expectations, and his annual business has reached a large figure, and in addition to his
business at Hankinson he has lumber yards at Rutland, North Dakota, and at New Effing-
ton and Hammer, South Dakota.
In 1886 Mr. Jones was married, in northern ilichigan, to Jliss Victoria Hamilton, and to
this union was born a daughter, who is now a missionary in Canton, China. The wife and
mother died on the 18th of March, 1887. Jlr. Jones was later married to Mary E. Stilwell,
of Ripon, Wisconsin, and to them have been born five children: John S. and Iferold M.,
both attending college; and Edith Belle; Daniel L. and Mary Carol, all at home.
Mr. Jones easts his ballot in support of the measures and candidates of the republican
party, but has never taken an active part in politics. He and his family are all devout
members of the Congregational church at Hankinson, in which Mr. Jones is very much
interested, being an active church member and very liberal in his contributions toward the
support of the church. He is widely known throughout the state and all wlio have been
brought in contact with him hold him in high esteem, and lie has many warm personal friends
among his business associates and neighbors.
ARNE 0. TUSIvIND.
Arne 0. Tuskind, of Davenport, has varied business interests in Cass county. He is
engaged in merchandising in Davenport, is president of the Farmers State Bank of that town
and also has an interest in a valuable farm. He was born in Norway on the 31st of January,
1863, and his parents were Ole and Carrie (Bratforl Tuskind, both of whom were born in
the land of the midnight sun. In 1871 the family crossed the Atlantic to the United States
and, making their way to the middle west, settled in Iowa, where they lived for one year.
In 1872 they removed to Cass county, North Dakota, and took up their abode on a farm on
the Sheyenne river, where the parents spent the remainder of their lives. The place was a
tract of wild prairie when it came into the possession of the family and the first residence
was a log cabin with a sod roof, which remained the family home for ten years. In time,
however, excellent improvements were made on the farm. Five of the nine children are still
living.
Arne O. Tuskind received his education in the common schools and remained at home
until he was twenty-five years of age, when he obtained employment as a clerk in a store at
Davenport. He worked in that capacity for seven years and then engaged in general mer-
chandising on his own account. He has an excellent store in Davenport and has gained a
gratifying patronage. He is also president of the Farmers State Bank of that town and was
one of the organizers of the institution, which holds the entire confidence of the community.
He is likewise treasurer of the local telephone company and he still owns an interest in the
old homestead, which comprises five hundred and fifty acres of improved land.
Mr. Tuskind was married in 1890 to Miss Josie Johnson, a native of Norway, who came
to the United States in her girlhood. They have become the parents of five children: Carl,
who was employed as a bookkeeper in the Moore building in Fargo and who is deceased ;
Clarence, at home; Stella, who is attending high school at Fargo; and Eugene and Arnold.
Mr. Tuskind is a democrat and has taken much interest in public affairs. He has served
as president of the village board, of which he is now treasurer, and for ten years he was
president of the board of education, doing much in that time to advance the interests of
the public schools. He holds membership in Lodge No. 29, K. P., in which he has held all
of the chairs, and he has served as a delegate to the Grand Lodge of North Dakota. He is
likewise identified with Modern Woodmen, the Ancient Order of United Workmen, the
Modern Brotherhood of America and the Yeomen. Both he and his wife are members of
2-10 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
the Lutheran church, and he is serving as secretary thereof. His is a well rounded character,
and in his life he has combined business activity with public service and with work along the
lines of moral advancement and development. All who have been brought in contact with
him hold him in high esteem, and his personal friends are many.
B. H. SCHNEIDER.
B. H. Schneider is the efficient and popular cashier of the Farmers State Bank of Daven-
port, Cass county, and is also a landowner. He was born in that county on the 3d of Sep-
tember, 1S82, a son of Louis and Johanna Schneider. His parents, who were natives of
Wisconsin, removed to this state in 1879 and located upon a farm four miles north of Daven-
port, where the father passed away in 1909 and where the mother still makes her home.
They became the parents of nine children, seven of whom are still living.
B. H. Schneider remained at home until he attained his majority and acquired his edu-
cation in the public schools and in a business college at Fargo. On completing his course
there he accepted a position as bookkeeper at Valley City, where he remained for a year,
after which he became assistant cashier in the Sawyer State Bank, which office he filled for
two years. At the end of that time his father died and he returned home to take charge
of the farm, which he operated for six years. He then aided in organizing the Farmers State
Bank at Davenport, of which he has since served as cashier. He understands business con-
ditions, manifests e.vcellent judgment in deciding various questions of policy, and under
his direction the bank has prospered. He also owns one hundred and sixty acres of land
and has an interest in the homestead.
On the 24th of December, 1914, Mr. Schneider was married to Jliss Mary Liechty. who
was born in Indiana and is a daughter of C. S. and Mary (Witmer) Liechty, both of wliom
are living in this county.
Mr. Schneider votes the republican ticket and has served as township clerk and is now
filling the office of village clerk. Both he and his wife are members of the Evangelical church
and take an active interest in the spread of its influence. Mr. Schneider is a }'Oung man
of marked energy and ability, and his continued success seems assured.
LEWIS H. PAIGE.
Lewis H. Paige, an attorney practicing at Berthold. was born in Oronoco, Minnesota,
May 4, 1860, a son of Foster A. and Clara M. (Beals) Paige, both of whom are natives of
the state of Vermont. The father was a farmer and in 1858 left New England, removing
westward to Minnesota, at which time he settled near Oronoco, but after about three years
returned to Vermont, where he remained until 1881. He then became a resident of Glendon,
Minnesota, where he engaged in merchandising for seven years. On the expiration of tliat
period he removed to Fargo and for about eighteen years acceptably filled the responsible
position of bookkeeper with the Fargo Loan Agency. His death there occurred in August,
1909, and his widow now resides with her son Lewis in Berthold. The father was born in
1832, so that he was seventy-seven years of age at the time of his demise. To him and
his wife were born five children: Julia, deceased; Lewis IL: Foster, w-ho is manager of a
large farm near Fargo and is also a large landowner; Nathaniel, who died in childhood; and
Marie, a violinist residing in Portland, Oregon.
Taken by his parents to New England in his early childhood, Lewis H. Paige attended
school at St. Albans, Vermont, and afterward pursued a special course in chemistry at
Fargo. Later he studied law with W. C. Dodge, of Fargo, and when twenty-three years of
age he accepted the position of bookkeeper in the oflTices connected with the elevator of the
Northern Pacific Company at Fargo. Two years later he entered the employ of the New
Hampshire Trust Company, for which he traveled in western Minnesota and South Dakota
until 1886, when he accepted the position of manager with the W. B. Clark Investment Com-
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 241
pany at Fargo, remaining there until 1891. In the meantime he read law with Mr. Dodge
for about four or five years and in the fall of 1891 entered the office of that attorney, with
whom he remained until the fall of 1893, having been admitted to the bar on the 4th of
October, 1889. In the fall of 1893 he went to the Pacific coast with the intention of locat-
ing in that section of the country, but after spending about a year in Portland, Seattle and
Tacoma he returned to Fargo, where he entered the employ of the Fargo Loan Agency, with
which he continued until the fall of 1904. He was afterward employed by the firm of Wells
& Dickey until 1906, when he removed to Berthold and opened a law office, since which time
he has there engaged in the practice of law and in the real estate and loan business. He
purchased the town site and he has since made two additions to Berthold and he now owns
three business properties and an attractive residence in the town. He is also an extensive
owner of North Dakota farm lands, but the greater part of his attention is given to the
practice of law.
In May, 1893, Mr. Paige was married to Miss Estelle W. Power, who was born in Worces-
ter, Massachusetts, a daughter of William A. and May (Walter) Power, natives of Pitts-
field, Massachusetts, and Elmira, New York, respectively. The father served in the Civil
war as a member of the Ninth Illinois Cavalry for four years, was twice wounded in battle
and was promoted to the rank of adjutant. At the close of his military service he returned
to New York, where he engaged in railroad work until May, 1880, when he came to the west,
settling in what is now Leonard, North Dakota. There he engaged in stock farming and
breeding, continuing at that point until 1893, when his health failed and he went to the
Milwaukee Soldiers' Home, where he is now located. His wife is living with her daughter,
Mrs. Paige, at the age of sixty-five years, while Mr. Power has reached the age of seventy-
four years. Mrs. Paige is the only child and was educated in the schools of Fargo, com-
pleting a high school course.
In his political views Mr. Paige is a democrat, but has never sought nor desired public
office, preferring to concentrate his energies upon his business affairs. Almost his entire
attention is given to his law practice and his ability in that line has brought him a good
clientage.
CHARLES ELMER BATCHELLER.
Charles Elmer Batcheller, cashier of the First National Bank of Fingal and proprietor
of the Poplar Grove Jersey Farm, which adjoins the town, was born at Stockton. New Y'ork,
October 10, 1863, a son of George Stillman and Eliza Ann (Lamphear) Batcheller. The
genealogy of the Batcheller family in America was compiled and published in a volume of
six hundred pages March 21, 1898, by Frederick C. Pierce, of Chicago, the ancestry being
traced back to the beginning of the seventeenth century in England, at which time members
of the family figured prominently in public affairs. The Rev. Stephen Batcheller, "Puritan
Emigrant," was among the first to come to America, while others were William, Joseph and
Alexander Batcheller. Three hundred representatives of the family took part in the Revo-
lutionary war, as recorded in the genealogical volume, and twenty of the name received pen-
sions. Many of the descendants have been and are prominent in the learned professions and
in various walks of life. Different branches of the family have spelled the name in various
ways. Captain Joseph Batcheller, grandfather of Charles E. Batcheller, was born in Wor-
cester, Massachusetts, June 3, 1778, and died in 1870. He was married .January 18, 1810, in
Smithfield, New York, to Dorothy Needham. who was born April 32, 1789. and passed away
February 20, 1865. Their son, George Stillman Batcheller, was born at Pomfret, New York,
July 5, 1825, and wedded Eliza Ann Lamphear, who was born November 18, 1834, and passed
away March 9, 1881. Of their family of six children five were daughters.
The only son, Charles E. Batcheller, attended the district schools and the State Normal
at Fredonia, New Y'ork, and afterward took up railroad work as station agent and operator
on the New York Central, continuing in that connection for six years. Coming to North
Dakota in 1892, he was afterward connected with the Northern Pacific Railway Company
for eighteen months and then accepted the position of assistant cashier in the First National
242 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
Bunk at Bullulo, North Dakota, witli wliich lie remained for five years. In 1899 he removed
to Fingal, where he organized the State Bank of Fingal, wliich is 1904 was merged into
the First National Bank. In 1900 the company erected the present bank bnilding, which is
splendidly equipped for the conduct of the hiisiness. Since the establishment of the bank Mr.
Batcheller has continuously filled the position of cashier. There has been nothing spectacular
in its history but a steady, continuous growth that is most gratifying. The bank has a
paid in capital .stock of twenty-five thousand dollars and a surplus of five thousand dollars.
Its total demand deposits amount to fifty-seven thousand three hundred and sixty-seven
dollars and its total time deposits to ninety-four thousand eight hundred and forty-eight
dollars. ]\Ir. Batcheller also owns a valuable farm of three hundred acres adjoining the town of
Fingal, of which he has two hundred acres under cultivation, while the balance is devoted
to pasture and the raising of alfalfa. The place is well fenced and there is good water,
while the residence, barns and outbuildings are all commodious and siibstantial. Here Mr.
Batcheller is engaged in the raising of thoroughbred stock, making a specialty of Jersey
cattle, which he has exhibited at the county and state fairs, and at the state fairs of 1910,
1911 and 1912 he carried oif all the first prizes. He now has over seventy head of Jersey
cattle on his place and finds a ready market for all the increase.
On the 28th of June, 1899, Mr. Batcheller was united in marriage to Miss Laura Dona-
hoe, of Huron county, Ontario, a daughter of Peter Donahoe, who was born near Toronto,
Ontario, 'and Eliza (Kenny) Donahoe, also of Ontario. The grandfather, Brian Donahoe,
was a native of Ireland and his father removed to Canada with his seven sons, most of whom
emigrated to the United States.
Fraternally Mr. Batcheller is connected with the Masons as a member of lodge, chapter,
commandery and Mystic Shrine. He is also identified with the Benevolent Protective Order
of Elks. At the present time he is serving on the governor's staff and he visited the Panama-
Pacific Exposition in San Francisco as one of Governor Hanna's aids. His standing in
financial circles is indicated by the fact that he has been honored with the presidency of the
North Dakota Bankers' Association, succeeding J. L. Caskcl, of Grafton, who in turn suc-
ceeded Governor L. B. Ilanna. Mr. Batcheller is vice president of the State Society of the
Sons of American Revolution. He belongs to the Congregational church and is a past presi-
dent of the North Dakota Christian Endeavor Union. His wife is a lady of much more than
average ability and has been a valuable assistant to her husband through the excellent
advice which she has given liim in relation to his banking and stock raising interests.
WILLIAM 1). W ILSON.
William D. Wilson, of Minot, who has farming interests in Ward county, was born in
Ontario, Canada, July 3, 1877, a son of William and Isabella (Caithness) Wilson, natives
of Canada and Scotland respectively. The father, who was a contractor and builder, came
to the United States in 1891, settling in Fargo where he engaged in business until he retired.
He afterward removed to Minot, where he passed away in 1907, while his widow still makes
her home in that city. Their family numbered eight children, of whmn William D. Wilson
is the fifth in order of birth.
In a high school in Canada William 1). Wilson completed his education and when a youth
of sixteen entered a telegraph office at Fargo as an apprentice. He continued there as an
operator until 1S97 and afterward spent a year in Grand Forks in the same capacity and a
similar period at Moorhead, Minnesota. In 1899 he arrived in Minot as manager for the
Western Union and Great Northern Companies, occupying that position for six years. In
1900 however, he filed on land in Ward county and when he left the telegraph office took
up his abode upon the farm, which is situated ten miles from !Minot. With characteristic
diligence and determination he bent his energies to the development, cultivation and improv-
ment of his place and resided thereon until the fall of 1912, when he established his home
in the city of Minot in order to afford his children better educational opportunities. He
is the present manager and secretary of the ^linot Dairy Company, of which he is one of the
stockholders, and he still gives his attention to the further development of three hundred
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 243
and sixty acres of excellent farm land, devoting the greater part of his time to his agricul-
tural interests.
In January, 1900, Mr. Wilson was united in marriage to Miss Edith Blom, who was
born in Ortonville, Minnesota, a daughter of Paidolph and Caroline (Johnson) Blom, both of
whom were natives of Stockholm, Sweden, whence the mother came to the United States at
the age of sixteen years. The father was about twenty j-ears of age when he crossed the
Atlantic, settling in Minnesota. The Johnson family established their home near Chicago,
and Mr. Blom engaged in general merchandising for some time and eventually removed to
Minot after residing in Fargo for a number of years. He retired from business in that city
and is now enjoying a well earned rest, but his wife passed away in Minot in 1913. Mr.
and Mrs. Wilson have become the parents of three children: Lucile B.ernice, a high school
pupil in Minot; Helen Mae, also attending school; and Woodrow Donald, three years of age.
Mr. Wilson is a prominent member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen, having
filled all of the offices in the local lodge and representing the organization in the Grand
Lodge, in which he has likewise been called to official position. He is now master Woodman
at Minot. His political allegiance is given to the republican party and he served on the
township school board for four years. His religious faith is that of the Presbyterian church,
the teachings of which have been a dominant force in his life, guiding him in all of his
relations with his fellowmen. He seeks those things which are most worth while not only
for himself, but for the community', working for the intellectual and moral progress as well
as for the material development of the district.
JOHN G. BOATMAN.
John G. Boatman, postmaster at Milnor, was born in Sedalia, Missouri, July 7, 1860,
a son of Thornton and Rebecca (Brownfield) Boatman. The father was a native of Ken-
tucky and of Scotch descent, while the mother's birth occurred in Virginia. In early life
they removed to Missouri with their respective families and near Sedalia, that state, were
married, establishing their home there and continuing their residence near that city until
called to their final rest. The father was a miller by trade and became the owner of a large
mill, but at the time of the Civil war this was burned to the ground by the soldiers. He
then turned his attention to farming and continued in active connection with business pur-
suits until he retired from business life, spending the last ten years in the enjoyment of a
well earned rest in Sedalia. He died in 1901, having for more than a quarter of a century
survived his wife, who passed away in 1875. In their family were eight children and all
are yet living.
John G. Boatman, the third in order of birth, obtained his education in the schools of
Sedalia, which he attended until he reached the age of fourteen years and then at his
mother's death Ijegan to earn his own living. He was employed in difl'erent ways at Sedalia
until seventeen years of age, when he began freighting by team to the mining camps out of
Denver, Colorado Springs and Pueblo. For three months he freighted express for the state
penitentiary at Canon City and spent about a year in that city, but in 1879 returned to
Missouri, where he invested his earnings in a farm of two hundred acres near Sedalia. He
then began farming on his own account and the result of his labors was soon seen in highly
cultivated fields.
As a companion and helpmate on life's journey Mr. Boatman chose Miss Maggie Hamil-
ton, whom he wedded in 1883, while she was visiting in Sedalia. They have become the
parents of four children: Charlie and Price engaged in farming; Boy, employed in a lumber
yard at Milnor, and Leila, the wife of Franz Gustavson.
Following their marriage Mr. Boatman and his wife remained in Missouri until 1885,
when he disposed of his property interests there and purchased a farm in Woodbury county,
Iowa, comprising two hundred and forty acres of rich and productive land. He lived thereon
for about seventeen years, when he disposed of that property and in 1902 went to Sargent
county. North Dakota, where he invested in three hundred and twenty acres of land in Mil-
nor township, adjoining the corporation limits of the town of Milnor. Since that time he has
244 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
further extended the boundaries of his farm by the purchase of a quarter section and he
also rents four hundred acres adjoining, so that hu now farms about eight hundred acres,
being one of the extensive agriculturists of the community, llis business allairs are wisely
directed and are bringing to him substantial and gratifying success.
Mr. Boatman is the oldest member of Anchor Lodge, Ko. 25, F. & A. M., at Jliliior and
is a most loyal and exemplary representative of the craft. His religious faith is that of the
Presbyterian church and his political belief that of the democratic party. In 1913 he
received the appointment to the position of postmaster of Milnor under President Wilson
and still serves in that capacity, making as excellent a record in office as he had previously
done as a private citizen and as a business man. He has never been afraid of hard work and
seems always to have realized the full force of the old Greek adage: "Earn thy reward; the
gods give naught to sloth."
H. G. BROTEN.
H. G. Broten, who is serving as postmaster of Davenport, and is also engaged in mer-
chandising there, is a native of Cass county, born on the 29th of Jlay, 1884. His parents,
Ole A. and Lena (Brink) Broten, were both natives of Norway, where they remained until
1865, in which year they emigrated to the United States. After residing for about fifteen
years in Minnesota they removed to Cass county. North Dakota, and took up their residence
on a farm. The father passed away in 1909, but the mother is still living. Our subject's
paternal grandfather also survives and has reached the advanced age of ninety-five years.
H. G. Broten is one of a family of four children, all of whom are living and all are
married. He passed the days of his boyhood and youth under the parental roof and attended
the common schools in the acquirement of an education. On beginning his business career
he became a clerk in a store at Davenport, in which connection he continued for two years.
He was then assistant station agent at that "place for a time, after which he was a brake-
man on the Great Northern Kailroad for two years. He next engaged in the flour and feed
business at Davenport, with which he is still connected. In 1911 he established a newspaper,
known as the Davenport News, which he conducted for a time. He now holds the oflice of
postmaster and is sj-stematic and accurate in the discharge of his duties. He also conducts
a store in connection with the postoffice and owns a good business block in Davenport.
Although comparatively a young man he has gained a measure of success that many of
his seniors might well envy.
Mr. Broten was married in 1911 to Miss Edna Zimmerman, who was born in Canada of
the marriage of Jacob and Elizabeth (Brill) Zimmerman. Her parents are still living and
reside upon a farm in Cass county, this state.
Mr. Broten is a republican and takes a keen interest in everything that affects the
general welfare. He is now serving as chairman of the village board and manifests the
same care and thought in directing the affairs of the municipality as he does in managing
his private business interests. Fraternally he is identified with the Modern Woodmen of
America and has many friends in that order and in the community at large.
ABRAM S. TAYLOR.
Abram S. Taylor, a grocer at Sheldon, was bom in Schoharie county, New York, Aug-
ust 11, 1845. His father, William Taylor, one of the early residents of the Empire state,
removed westward to Wisconsin and thence went to Elgin, Illinois, where he spent his
remaining days. He was a lawyer by profession and while in Wisconsin engaged also in the
real estate business. After his removal to Illinois he purchased what was known as the
Banner farm of that state, situated forty miles out of Chicago and four miles from Elgin
and comprising a half section of land. He then turned his attention to general agricultural
pursuits and continued the further development and improvement of his notably fine place
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 245
up to the time of his death, whiclx occurred in 1S67. A number of years before he had
wedded Margaret Shutts, a native of Xew York, who died in 1S48. Mr. Taylor, the father,
was married three times.
Abram S. Taylor began his education in the schools of the Empire state, continued his
studies in Sheboygan and also attended an academy at Elgin, Illinois. It was while he was
a student there that the Civil war began and he volunteered for service in the Union army,
joining the Seventeenth Illinois Cavalry on the 25th of December, 1863, and remaining with
his command until the Christmas season of 1865. Later he engaged in farming in Illinois
and in 1876 removed to Sauk Eapids, Minnesota. While there making his home he trav-
eled for a hardware house, devoting six years to that business. Later he went to South
Dakota, where he secured a squatter's claim, and as soon as possible he filed on his land,
giving his attention to farming there for eighteen years, his labors resulting in bringing
about a marked transformation in the appearance of his place. When the work of the
farm was put. aside he removed to Shelbj', South Dakota, where he engaged in the lumber
business for a year and a half. In 1903, however, he came to North Dakota and established
a lumber yard in Glenburn, where he continued for a year, hauling his lumber from Minot to
Glenburn, a distance of twenty-two miles, up to the time when the railroad was put through.
In 1904 he removed to Sheldon, where he opened a hardware store which he owned and
managed for eight years, and on selling out in that line he established a grocery business,
which he is now conducting. He has gradually worked his way upward and is enjoying a
profitable trade.
In 1867 Mr. Taylor was married to Miss Clara Bradley, who was born in Vermont, Sep-
tember 30, 1850, her parents being old residents of that state. Mr. and Mrs. Taylor have
had five children, namely: Eveline, who was born May 16, 1869, and passed away in 1895;
Cora, whose natal day was May 16, 1870; Lisle, born in 1877; Charlie, bom in 1879; and
Blanch", whose birth occurred in 1898.
In his politcal views Mr. Taylor is a democrat and while living in Walworth county,
South Dakota, served as registrar of deeds and as county commissioner. At the time he
was chosen for the first named office he was the only democrat elected on the ticket, having
a majority of one hundred and fifty over his opponent — a fact which indicated his personal
popularity and the confidence reposed in him. At the close of his first term he was again
nominated and won the election by a majority of two hundred and fifty notwithstanding
Walworth is a strong republican county. He is a member of the Fraternal Bankers Society,
as is his wife. They attend the Presbyterian church but Mrs. Taj'lor is an Episcopalian in
religious faith. Well known in Sheldon, they are highly esteemed because of the possession
of traits of character which have kept them in line with all those interests and movements
which work for the uplift of the individual and the benefit of the community.
CHARLES L. STEVENSON.
Charles L. Stevenson, who for fourteen years has been actively connected with the State
Bank of Berthold, of which he was one of the founders and of which he is now the president,
came to his present position well qualified by previous experience in the l^anking business
at Minto and before that time in other places. Practically his entire life has been passed
in North Dakota, although he was born in Kingston, Canada, August 4, 1875, a son of
James and Louisa (Jacobi) Stevenson, the former a native of the north of Ireland, while
the latter was born in Germany. In the fall of 1876 they arrived in this state and settled
on the Turtle river near Grand Forks, where Mr. Stevenson secured and developed a home-
stead which he continued to cultivate until 1914, when he disposed of that property and
now makes his home in California. His wife passed away in 1913. He has never been
active in politics but was always loyal to the best interests of his community and during
his residence in this state served on the local board of education.
Of a family of eight children Charles L. Stevenson was the third. His educational
opportunities were very limited, as he did not get to attend school after reaching the age
of twelve years, at which time he entered a bank in the employ of his uncle at Ardoch,
246 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
North Dakota. He was a little barefooted ureliin clad in jeans trousers, and no one would
have predicted that he would some day be at the head of a banking institution himself.
The diligence, determination and industry which have been his salient features were early
manifest and there were times when he would be left for two or three days alone in the
bank. He received twenty-five dollars for seven months' work and at the end of that time
he pursued a three months' course in a business college in Minneapolis. He then returned
home and acted as bookkeeper and also as postmaster for a cousin who was employed in a
general store. He severed that business connection when sixteen years of age and went
into the Bank of Minto at Jlinto, this state, in the position of assistant cashier, there
remaining for about nine years, although in the meantime he was advanced to the position
of cashier. He resigned in 1902 and came to Berthold, where he purchased lots and erected
the present bank building, founding the State Bank of Berthold, which institution he entered
as it first cashier. Five years later he purchased the interests of other stockholders and
became president of the institution, in which connection he still continues. He is cngsiged
in the general banking business and his wise direction of the interests of the bank, manifest
in a progressiveness that is tempered by safe conservatism, has brought well merited success
to the institution. He is also a director of the Fanners Elevator Company and the owner
of considerable farm land and in 1914 cultivated fifteen hundred acres, while in 1915 he
gave personal supervision to the tilling of seven hundred and forty acres. He was at one
time proprietor of a drug store in Berthold but has recently disposed of that business to
his brother and now largely concentrates his attention upon his banking business.
On the 23d of June, 1902, Mr. Stevenson was married to Miss Laura Hughes, a native
of North Dakota and a daughter of John and Sarah Hughes. Her father, a farmer by
occupation, became one of the early residents of this state and is now living retired in
Minto. To Mr. and Mrs. Stevenson have been born two children: Frances, born June 24,
1903; and Jack L., July 31, 1909. In his political views Mr. Stevenson is a democrat but
has never aspired to office. Fraternally he is connected with the Modern Woodmen of
America, of which he was formerly treasurer, and with the Elks lodge at ]\Iinot. His long
connection with the business interests of Berthold has made him widely known in Ward
county and his part of the state, and the substantial and reliable qualities which he has
displayed have gained for him the goodwill and confidence of colleagues and contemporaries.
rilATtLF.S F. TRUAX.
Charles F. Truax is a well known representative of the printing business and also of
the cattle industry in western Nortli Dakota. He is the owner of a large and well equipped
printing establishment at Minot and in that connection is conducting a constantly increasing
business. He is a western man by birth, training and preference. He was born at Sauk
Center, Minnesota, October 19, 1869, a son of James Wright and Chloe Anna (Wheeler)
Truax. The father was born in Ogdensburg, New York, in 1833, and the mother's birth
occurred on Barnharts Island, Canada, in January, 1842. In early life Mr. Truax engaged in
railroad work and after the outbreak of the Civil war he enlisted as a member of Company A,
Second Wisconsin Cavalry, with which he served for full four years. He was wounded in
battle and for a time was conlined in the hospital by his injuries. After his recovery he
continued to work in the hospital until the war closed. Later he engaged in driving a Red
River cart until 187.5, when he began railroad work, in which he continued actively until
1900. lie was then elected county judge at Williston, North Dakota, where he served until
two years prior to his death. He had also become a landowner of the state, securing a
claim under a soldier's right, his place being located two miles north of Williston. His widow
now resides in St. Paul, Minnesota.
Charles F. Truax is the youngest in a family of six children, of whom three are yet
living. He attended the public schools of Hastings, Minnesota, completing the work of the
eighth grade, after which he entered the newspaper office of Dan Chamberlain, who was
conducting a daily paper and with whom he remained for about two years. He then went
into the Gazette office of Irving Todd & Son in Hastings, Minnesota, continuing there for
CHARLES F. TRUAX
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 249
seven or eight years, after which he engaged in raihoad work with his father until 1902.
On the 39th of March, 1889, he arrived in Minot and when he withdrew from active connection
with railroad work he established the Ward County Independent. A year later he formed a
partnership with G. D. Colcord for the publication of a weekly paper and they have an
office equipped for all kinds of commercial and law printing and job work. He is likewise
engaged in the cattle business. Indefatigable industry has been the salient factor in his
growing success, winning him a place among the substantial business men of Minot. His
investments in real estate include farm lands in Mountrail county, which he has rented and
which brings to him a good financial return.
On the 28th of June, 1901, Mr. Truax was united in marriage to Jliss JIartha Dalziel
Gibb, a native of London, Ontario, Canada, and a daughter of William and Katie (Carter)
Glbb, both of whom were born in Scotland. Emigrating to the United States, they located
first in New .Jersey, subsequently removed to Lake Park, Minnesota, and in, 1886 came to
Minot, North Dakota. Here ilr. Gibb began ranching, raising cattle and horses, and now
carries on his operations in Mountrail county, on the Missouri river. He is at present serving
as postmaster of Brookbank, North Dakota. Mr. and Mrs. Truax have three children,
namely: Cliarles Abraham, who was born in 1903; William Raymond, whose natal year was
1905; and Theodore Gibb, whose birtli occurred in 1907.
Mr. Truax and his family are members of the Presbyterian church and fraternally he
is connected with the Masons. He has passed through all of the chairs of the blue lodge and
of the Royal Arch chapter and served as senior warden and captain general and is now serving
as generalissimo in the Knights Templar commandery and Is a charter member of Kem
Temple of the Mystic Shrine at Grand Forks. In politics he is a republican but has had no
aspiration for political office. He has served, however, as a member of the board of
education for seven years and at this writing is its president. The cause of education finds
in him indeed a stalwart champion and one whose efforts have been directly beneficial in
promoting the interests of the schools. What he has accomplished represents the fit utiliza-
tion of the innate powers and talents which are his and his advancement has resulted largely
from close application and determination to accomplish what he undertakes.
WALTER E. KRICK.
Walter E. Krick, owner and publisher of the Berthold Tribune of Berthold, Ward
county, was born in Caledonia, Minnesota, Februarj' 23, 1873, a son of Theobald and Isabel
(Holden) Krick. The father was born in Bavaria, Germany, in 1832, and the Mother's
birth occurred in Trondhjem, Norway. In early life Theobald Ivrick became a shoe manu-
facturer and in the year 1850 he left his native land for the United States, landing at New
York, where he worked for others for a time. He then went to Canada and was associated
in business with two brothers for a year or two. He afterward removed to Caledonia,
Minnesota, where he engaged in the shoe business, continuing in that city until his death
in 1898. His wife, who was born in 1843, is still a resident of Caledonia.
Walter E. Krick, the eldest of their four children, pursued his education in the schools of
Caledonia, which lie attended to the age of fifteen, when he secured a position in a printing
office at a salary of fifty cents per week. He remained in that establishment imtil he was
the owner of a half interest in the business, having gradually worked his way upward,
thoroughly acquainting himself with every phase of the trade. In 1902 he sold out and in
August, 1903, went to Berthold, North Dakota, where he purchased the Tribune, a weekly
paper, which he has since published. His office is thoroughly equipped for all commercial
work and his entire attention is devoted to his printing interests. Since the paper was
founded its name has never been changed and under the direction of Mr. Krick the Tribune
has become a most interesting journal, devoted to community aff'airs and to the dissemina-
tion of general news.
In May. 1901, occurred the marriage of Mr. Krick and Miss Anstis Lucille Harries, a
native of Caledonia, Minnesota, and a daughter of Captain W. H. and Anna (Dunbar) Harries,
who were early settlers of that place. Her father served as a member of congress from the
Vol. 11—14
250 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
first district of Minnesota in 1893 and was revenue collector in Minnesota under the Cleve-
land administration. He was also county attorney of Houston county and is the present
commandant of the Soldiers' Home of Minnesota. At the time of the Civil war he served
with the First Wisconsin Regiment throughout the entire period of hostilities, was wounded
in buttle and was confined to a hospital for a long period. He still carries the bullet over
his heart, it being so near the vital organ that it cannot be removed. His wife passed away
about 1883. To Mr. and Mrs. Krick have been born three children, Estelle Isabel, Alice
Beatrice and Robert Walter.
Mr. Iviick is the present secretary of the Jlasonic lodge at Berthold and belongs also to
the Odd Fellows lodge, the Woodmen camp and the Modern Brotherhood of America at
Berthold and to the Elks lodge at Minot. In politics he is a stalwart republican and is now
serving as president of his village. He was tlie first postmaster of Berthold under Presi-
dent Taft and he has been a member of the board of education, maintaining at all times a
deep and helpful interest in public affairs relating to the public welfare and the upbuilding
of the locality in wliicli he makes his home.
A. L. BAYLEY.
A. L. Bayley was born in Dodge county, Wisconsin, June 10, 1874, the son of S. E. and
Melissa (Sanford) Bayley, tlie former a native of Vermont and the latter of Wisconsin.
His parents were married in Wisconsin, whither the father had gone as a young man, and
where they continued to live until the year 1880, wlien they joined the pioneers then emi-
grating to Dakota territory, settling on a government homestead in Cornell township, Cass
county, near Buffalo, which the father proved up and operated for more tlian two decades.
The mother passed away in 1890, and some years later the father went to live with his
son, R. E. Bayley, with whom he still makes his home.
A. L. Bayley attended the public schools and supplemented the education so acquired
by taking a business course and a year's preparatory course in Fargo College and by study
in the State Agricultural College. He left the latter institution in the year ISOS, when in
his sophomore year, and accepted a position with S. G. More of Buffalo, Jvortli Dakota, as
assistant cashier of the Bank of Buffalo, which bank was later nationalized, becoming the
First National Bank of Buffalo. In the year 1903 Mr. Bayley severed his connection with the
First National Bank of Buffalo to accept the cashiership of the then newly organized State
Bank of Alice and as such officer has since assisted in directing the financial policies of tliat
institution until it has grown to be one of the sound and prosperous banks of the state. He
is also interested in agricultvirc as he owns two hundred and forty acres of good land near
Alice.
On .June 8, 1007, Mr. Bayley was married to Jliss Maud A. Dickinson, a daugliter of
Hon. and Mrs. F. H. Dickinson of Ayr, North Dakota. Ilcr father served two terms in the
state legislature and is at present residing with his wife on a fine farm near Ayr, North
T)akota. To Mr. and Mrs. Bayley have been born four children, three of whom are living,
namely: Howard E., Douglas D. and Edgar L.
Both Mr. and Mrs. Bayley are members of the Moravian clnncli of Alice and of Aurora
Chapter, No. 59, 0. E. S. of Buffalo, North Dakota. Mr. Bayley also holds membership in
the Ancient Order of X'nited Workmen; the Modern Woodmen of America; Buffalo Lodge,
No. 77, A. F. & A. M.; and Endcrlin Chapter, No. 19, R. A. M.
CHART>ES J. BUCK.
Charles J. Buck, the popular and efficient young cashier of the Embdcn State Bank, has
been connected with banking since beginning his career and has advanced steadily in his
chosen work. He was born in ChafTee, Cass county, April 13, 1883, of the marriage of Fred
and Dorothea (Thcile) Buck, both natives of Germany, where they resided until 1875. In
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 251
that 3'ear they emigi-ated to the United States and, making their way to the middle west,
settled in Dearborn, Michigan, which is now within the city limits of Detroit. After remain-
ing there for two years they removed to Fargo, Xorth Dakota, which was then about as
large as the village of Embden is at the present time. The father was made section boss on
the Northern Pacific Railroad, with which he was connected for five years, after which he
took up a homestead in Walburg township and turned his attention to farming. He bought
other land and his holdings in time totaled six hundred and forty acres. In 1898, however,
he removed to North Carolina and made investments in land there, which proved unfortunate,
as he met with financial reverses. He then returned to North Dakota and bought a half
section of land in Gill township, Cass county, which he still owns. For the last five years he
has lived retired in Fargo.
Charles J. Buck was reared at home and acquired his education in the public schools
and in the Dakota Business College at Fargo, where he took a business course, graduating
from that institution with the class of 1905. He then secured a position as assistant
cashier in the Medina State Bank at Medina, North Dakota, remaining with that institution
for one and a half years, after which he became cashier of a bank at Chafl'ee which was
owned by the same people as the Medina State Bank. Nine months later, however, the
bank at Cliaffee was sold to a number of the leading farmers of the district and Mr. Buck,
in February, 1908, removed to Embden, becoming assistant cashier of the State Bank at
that place which had been established the previous September. As the cashier, C. A. Wheel-
ock, was a non-resident, Mr. Buck assumed the duties of that office and directed the policies
of the institution, discharging his important duties with discretion. In 1912 the bank
was bought by the local farmers and Mr. Buck was formally elected cashier. He makes the
safeguarding of the interests of the depositors and stockholders his first concern, but also
promotes the legitimate trade expansion of the community by a judicious extension of
credit.
Mr. Buck was married on the 11th of October, 1910, to Miss Nora Corcoran, of Chaffee,
by whom he has a son, Vincent J. He is identified with the Modern Woodmen and with
Jamestown Lodge No. 995, B. P. 0. E. In politics he is a stalwart republican, but although
he takes a praiseworthy interest in public affairs, he has never sought official preferment.
He has concentrated his energies upon his banking business and has gained recognition as
one of the leaders in local financial circles.
RICHARD N. LEE.
Richard N. Lee, the editor of the Walcott Reporter of Walcott, Richland county, is well
known in his section of the state and his paper is recognized as an excellent weekly. He
was born in Grant county, Minnesota, on the 14th of August, 1879, the oldest child of Ole
and Carrie (Hanger) Lee, both natives of Norway, the former born in 1845 and the latter
in 1855. They came to the United States with their respective parents, grew to manhood
and womanhood in this country, and were married in Red Wing, Minnesota. The father
farmed during the greater part of his active life, but was for a time a hotel keeper in Red
Wing and also served on the police force there. Subsequently he took up a claim in Grant
county, Jlinnesota, and still later removed to the vicinity of Mcintosh, where he purchased
land. The town was platted on his land and in addition to farming he conducted a butcher
shop in Mcintosh for some time. In 1900 he removed to North Dakota and settled on a farm
in Viking township, Richland county, which he operated until he retired. At that time he
sold his farm and he has since resided in Walcott, where he owns a good residence. He is a
democrat and while living in Grant county, Minnesota, served as supervisor of Gorton town-
ship. He and his wife are both identified with the Norwegian Lutheran church, in the work
of which they have always taken a deep interest. Six of their eight children survive.
Richard N. Lee was educated in the country schools and in the high school at Mcintosh,
Minnesota. In his youth he learned the printer's trade and in 1902 entered the employ of
George Van Arman the proprietor of the Walcott Reporter. Five years later Mr. Lee pur-
chased the paper, which he has since successfully conducted. It has a circulation of sis
252 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
luindrod and is well pntroni/cd liy tlic local inercliants as an advertising medium. He also
has a well equipped job printing plant and does considerable work of that character. He
owns the fine cement block building in which his plant is located and also holds title to his
comfortable residence. He is recognized as an able newspaper man and has also gained a
gratifying financial success.
In March, 1906, Mr. Lee was united in marriage to Miss Virginia Van Arman, a daugh-
ter of George and Nettie (Heath) Van Arman, and they have become parents of three
children, two of whom are living, Ramona and Grace. He is independent in polities and
fraternally is connected with tlie Odd Fellows and the Modern Woodmen. His wife is a
consistent member of the Congregational church and takes an active interest in its work.
Mr. Lee devotes his entire time to his business, which is one secret of his success. He has
made the Reporter not only an up-to-date and reliable disseminator of news, but also an
important factor in the formation of public opinion and in the promcitiun of ]irojects for the
general good.
FRED 0. FOLDEX.
Fred 0. Folden, who owns and conducts a drug store at ClifTord, Traill county, was
born in Norway, September 11, 1864, of the marriage of Ole and Serine Folden, both also
natives of that country. The father passed away there and subsequently, in 1879, the
mother came to America, locating in Minnesota. Later she removed to Traill county, North
Dakota, where she passed away.
Fred O. Folden is one of a family of eight children, of whom five are living. He received
his education in Norway, where he remained until 1879, in which year he came to America
with his mother. After living for a time in Fillmore county, Minnesota, where he worked
as a farm hand, he decided to try his fortunes in North Dakota and located in Griggs
county. He remained there for two years but in 188S came to Traill county and two years
later purchased a drug store at ClifTord and has gained recognition as one of the up-to-date
and reliable merchants of the town. He carries a good stock, his prices are reasonable, he
lias gained an enviable reputation for fair dealing and as the years have passed his
patronage has shown a steady growth. He also owns stock in the Farmers Elevator and
in the Traill Coiinty Telephone Company, both prosperous local enterprises.
In 1904 occurred the marriage of Mr. Folden and Miss Ingeborg .lacobson and tliey
have two sons, Oscar E. and Ernest 0. Mr. Folden is a republican in his political belief
and for nine years served as clerk of the school board. In 1896, under JIcKinlcy's adminis-
tration, he was appointed postmaster of ClifTord and was continued in that office until
1915, making an unusual record not only as to the length of his service but also as regards
the ability with which he discharged his duties. He holds membership in the Modern
Woodmen of America and he and his family attend the Lutheran church. He is entitled to
the credit which is given to a self-made man, for he came to this country a poor boy and
through his own eflorts has gained a competence and has also won a high place in the
esteem of his fellow citizens.
TVER A. CASPERSON.
Tver A. Casperson, who is successfully engageil in merchandising in Walcott, Richland
county, was born in Norway, March 27, 1864, a son of Casper and Ingeborg (Peterson)
Olsen. The father, who was born in 1823, died in 1913, but the mother, whose birth occurred
in 1827, is still living and makes her home with the subject of this review. They were
married in Norway in 1848 and remained in that country until 1882 when they emigrated
to the United States and located in Walcott, North Dakota. The father spent the rest
of his life in honorable retirement, having accumulated a competence. He was a very active
member of the Lutheran church and in his daily life exemplified the teachings of Oiristian-
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 253
ity. To him and his wife were born four children, namely: Mrs. Anna Farup, who died in
1914; Mrs. M. N. Wigtil, a widow residing in Walcott; 0. C, who is farming three hundred
and twenty acres of land three miles from Walcott; and Iver A.
Iver A. Casperson was reared upon a farm and early became accustomed to agricultural
work. On beginning his independent career he worked as a farm hand and when he had
acquired sufficient capital he invested in land, which he cultivated for a time. He then
supplemented the education which he had previously acquired by attending school at Will-
more Seminary, after which he engaged in teaching in Englisli schools for ten years. In
1895 he entered the business world, becoming clerk in a store, in which capacity he worked
for six years. At the end of that time he purchased an interest in a mercantile establish-
ment and is now a large stockholder in the Walcott Mercantile Company, which owns a
large store and which has built up an extensive and profitable patronage. They carry a
well selected stock of general merchandise and spare no pains to satisfy the wants of their
customers.
In 1897 Mr. Casperson was united in marriage to Miss Anna Anderson, a daughter of
Carl Anderson, an early settler of North Dakota and a successful farmer. Mr. and Mrs.
Casperson have »ix children: Mabel and Charles, who are attending high school; Aleta
and Inga, who are in school; Elmer; and Mildred.
Mr. Casperson casts his ballot in siipport of the candidates and measures of the repub-
lican party and for fifteen years served as township school treasurer, while for eight years
he was clerk of Walcott. He holds membership in the Lutheran church and in all the rela-
tions of life he measures up to high standards of manhood. He is considered one of the
valuable citizens of Walcott and his personal friends are many.
JOHN OLSON.
John Olson, who is residing on section 30, Hill township, and owns thirteen hundred
and sixty acres of excellent land in Cass county, is now one of the wealthiest men in his
township but when he came to this state he was without capital other than his enterprise,
his sound judgment and his determination to win prosperity in this new country. He was
born in Sweden on the 2d of February, 1859, a son of Olof and Johanna Olson, both of whom
lived and died in that country.
The subject of this review remained at home during the period of his boyhood and
youth and attended the common schools in the acquirement of an education. He continued
to reside in his native country for a number of years after reaching his majority but in
1886 crossed the Atlantic to the United States and made his way direct to North Dakota,
arriving in Cass county on the last of June. When he reached New York city he had but
ten dollars in money and when he arrived in North Dakota he had not even a dollar. It was
imperative that he obtain work at once and he hired out as a farm hand, working in that
capacity for two or three years. He carefully saved his money and in 1888 purchased a
relinquishment on a homestead — his present home farm — on which he located in the fol-
lowing spring. He at once began the cultivation and improvement of his land, which he
has brought to a high state of development. He proved very successful as a farmer from
the start and from time to time has bought additional land, now owning thirteen hundred
and sixty acres of the finest land in Cass county. He is practical and progressive in car-
rying on his farm work, being ready to substitute a new method for an old if it promises
to be more efficient, and in managing the business phase of farming he displays sound judg-
ment. He has firm faith in the future of the state and is contributing in no small measure to
the agricultural development of his section. In addition to his large land holdings he owns
stock in tlie Farmers Elevator Company at Alice.
On the 38th of December, 1887, Mr. Olson was married to Miss Mathilda Jensen, a
native of Denmark, who came to America on the same ship as her husband. They have
become the parents of five children: Oscar, at home; Minnie, a public school teacher;
Amelia, who is also teaching school; Herman, at home; and Clara, who is likewise a
teacher. The three daughters are all graduates of the State Normal School at Valley City.
254 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
Mr. Olson studies public questions carefully and casts an indciicndcnt ballot, lie lias
served as a member of the township board of trustees for the last fifteen years and for
many years has been school treasurer and a member of the school board. He has given
the same care and thought to the discharge of his ollicial duties that he gives to the con-
duct of his business Interests and has made an excellent record in office, liotli lie and his
wife belong to the Methodist Episcopal church and at all times tliey seek to exemplify the
teachings of that organization in their daily lives. He is one of the foremost residents of
Cass county and not only holds the respect but also the warm regard of those who have
been associated with him.
S. WESTLAND.
S. Westland, one of the prosperous farmers of Reed township, Cass county, was born
in Sweden, September 19, 1850, a son of Peter and Mary Westland, further mention of
whom appears elsewhere in this work. He was reared in his native land and there attended
the common schools. In 1883, when about thirty-two years of age, he came to America
and made his way to Cass county. North Dakota, where he cultivated a rented farm for
three years. At the expiration of that period he removed to Dickey county, this state,
where he took up a homestead, upon which he lived for six years. He then sold that place
and purchased his present home farm of two hundred and twenty-one acres on sections
1 and 36, Reed township, Cass county. He has erected excellent buildings and made other
improvements upon his place and in his work uses improved machinery and up-to-date
methods. When lie came to this country he had no capital, but his energy and good man-
agement have enabled him to accumulate a competence.
In 1873 Mr. Westland was united in marriage to Miss Mary Jensen and they have
nine children : Mary, at home ; Carrie, the wife of Louis Holmquist, a resident of Jlinnesota ;
Katie, who is at home; Ottilia, who is teaching school; John S., at home; Hannah, also a
teacher by profession; Paul E., who is at home; Victor, who is attending normal school at
Moorhead, Minnesota; and Goodwin F., who is in college at Fargo.
Mr. Westland is a republican in politics but has never desired to hold office. He and
his family belong to the Lutheran church and further its advancement in every way possible.
He is recognized as a good citizen and a man of unswerving integrity and there are many
who hold him in warm personal regard.
JENS PEDERSEN.
Jens Pederaen, a pioneer merchant of Milnor and one of the substantial citizens that
Denmark has furnished to Sargent county, was born on the island of Falster, oil the Danish
coast, June 19, 1855, a son of Pcder and Marie (Rasniussen) Paulson. The father, who was
a wagon maker by trade, died when his son Jens was but seven years of age. Following the
death of her husband Mrs. Paulson was married again, becoming the wife of Rasmus Chris-
tofferson, who came with his family to the new world in 1873 and settled in Michigan.
Jens Pedersen did not remain there but continued on to St. Paul and soon aftcrwiird
went to work in Minneapolis. He had previously learned the blacksmith's trade and he secured
employment in a carriage shop in Minneapolis, in which he remained for four and a half
years. He then removed to Renville county, Minnesota, where he embarked in business inde-
pendently, opening a blacksmith shop which he carefully and successfully conducted. He also
purchased one hvmdred and twenty-seven acres of land, which he cultivated in connection with
his other interests, and subsequently a further purchase added one hundivd and sixty acres
to his holdings.
Wliile residing upon his farm Mr. Pedersen was married in 1S7S to Mi>s Marie IIolT. who
was born in Norway, near Drammen, but came to the United States with her parents, Chris-
tian and Turina (Olsen) HofT, who settled in Cottonwood county, Jlinnesota.
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 255
For three years Mr. Pedersen resided in Renville county and afterward removed to Rich-
land county, North Dakota, in 1882, after having disposed of the interests which he had
previonsly held. He settled three miles east of McLeod, in Richland county, and as land
in that locality was still in the possession of the government, he homesteaded one hundred
and sixty acres, on which he built a log house. In the spring of 1883, however, he left that
place and went to Sargent county, opening a blacksmith shop in the town of Linton, two
and a half miles east of Milnor. He continued to engage in blacksmithing there until the
latter part of August, 1883, when he bought city lots in the new town of Milnor, which was
opened up by the railroad on the 14th of August, 1883. He built a shop and also a dwelling,
the shop being jusi across the street from the site of bis present store. All of the buildings
in the town of Linton were then removed to Milnor but Mr. Pedersen built a home in the
west part of the village, three blocks from the main street. His was the first building
erected in the village and he continued to engage in blacksmithing there until 1889. In the
meantime he purchased a half section of land in Milnor township adjoining the town site and
this he developed and cultivated, while engaging at the same time in blacksmithing. In 1889
he established a store for the sale of farm implements in the next block south of his black-
smith shop, purchasing property there for the purpose. He continued in that business until
the fall of 1898, when he sold the building for a creamery, having assisted in organizing the
Milnor Creamery Company, a cooperative creamery. The enterprise, however, did not prove
profitable and was discontinued. Mr. Pedersen later purchased the Helgcrson-Skjenstad-
Burch general store, which had been established and conducted at Linton by Nathan Linton
and had been removed to Milnor when the town was changed. This was practically the
first store in the county. Mr. Pedersen carried on business in the same location until 1905,
when a fire occurred, destroying the building, although he saved much of the stock. He after-
ward erected a cement and brick building nearly fireproof and in the meantime he has largely
increased his stock and has won a growing trade. The store was called the Pioneer Store
by Mr. Linton and is still conducted under that name. In 1913 Mr. Pedersen erected a solid
concrete warehouse adjoining his store. In 1903 he disposed of his farm lands and is now
engaged in general merchandise business and is a stockholder in the Milnor National Bank
and a stockholder and the vice president of the Farmers Mill and Grain Company and one of
its directors.
Mr. Pedersen has one of the fine homes of his town and also has five acres across the
street, extending down to the lake. In politics he is a democrat and in 1885 and 1886 served
as county commissioner. He is a member of the executive committee of the democratic state
central committee and is one of the recognized leaders of his party in the southeastern section
of North Dakota. He has been a delegate to the national convention and he does everything
in his power to promote the growth and ensure the success of the party. F'raternally he is
connected with the Modern Woodmen of America, while his religious faith is indicated by
his membership in the Lutheran church at Milnor. His life has ever been characterized by
strong purpose and close application, and progressiveness and even-paced energy have car-
ried him into important commercial and busines relations. At the same time his interesta
have been of public benefit, for in all that he has done his work has contributed to general
progress and improvement.
CORNELIUS RUST.
Among the many Norwegians who have become valued citizens of the northwest is
Cornelius Rust, of Raymond township, Cass county, who owns eight hundred and fifty acres
of good land and also has other business interests. He was born in Norway on the 15th of
August, 1851, of the marriage of Elias and Cliristina Rust, both natives of that country. The
father died there, and the mother subsequently emigrated to the United States, her demise
occurring in Minnesota. Seven of their twelve children are living.
Cornelius Rust received his education in his native land but when about twenty years of
age came to the United States and going to the middle west, located in Goodhue county,
Minnesota, where he lived for eight years. In 1879 he removed to Cass county. North Dakota,
256 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
and took up his residence on section 3, Raymond township. Upon his farm he built a small
house, twelve by fourteen feet, and that remained his residence for three years, lie has
since erected a large and well designed dwelling and has made other improvements upon his
farm, which is now one of the valuable places of the county. Its value is increased by a fine
grove which he planted, and he also has all kinds of fruit upon the farm. In addition to his
home place he owns other land, his total holdings being eight hundred and fifty acres, all of
which is improved. He owns stock in throe farmers' elevators and is a director in the one at
Prosper.
In 1882 Mr. Rust was married to Miss Betsy Kyllo, who was born in Norway and by
whom he has seven children: Emma, at home; Herman P., who is farming in this county;
Charles; Josephine, the wife of Oscar Peterson, of Prosper; and Edward, George and Clarence,
all at home.
Mr. Rust is a republican and has served on the school board for several terms. Both
he and his wife hold membership in the Lutheran church, the teachings of which govern their
conduct. They have made many warm friends in the county, where both are well known,
and he is recognized as one of the most substantial men of his locality. When he came to this
country, however, he was without capital, and his success is due entirely to his enterprise and
wise management.
.JOHN F. ROTZIEN.
John F. Rotzien is well known in Cass county and is the efficient manager of the Farmers-
elevator at Addison, which does a large and profitable business. He was born in Fond du
Lac, Wisconsin, on the 29th of April, 1878, a son of John and Falava (Mayer) Rotzien, both
natives of Germany, whence they were brought to this country by their respective parents
when children. Thej' were married in Wisconsin and took up their abode upon a farm near
Fond du Lac, where they resided until 1887, when they went to McLeod county, Minnesota,
where the father is still living.
John F. Rotzien was reared at home and received his education in the public schools.
However, his opportunities along that line were very limited as he did not attend school after
nis mother's death, which occurred when he was but nine years of age. He received valuable
training in farm work, assisting his father from early boyhood until he was twenty-five years
of age. For the last seven years of that time he was also engaged in the live stock business,
buying the first carload of stock when he was but eighteen years old. He continued to buy
and ship stock for a number of years and in 190.3 he also turned his attention to the lumber
business in Price county, Wisconsin. He continued active in that field nutil 1910 and was
subsequently for two years engaged in the ditching business in ^Minnesota. In 1912, how-
ever, he came to North Dakota and became manager of the Reliance Company's elevator at
Linton, remaining there until 1914, when he was given charge of the Farmers elevator at Ad-
dison, the business of which he has since directed.
In 1907 Mr. Rotzien was married to Miss Irene Whiting, of Clitherall, Minnesota, by
whom he has two children, Courtney K. and Doris Irene. Mr. Rotzien casts his ballot in sup-
port of the men and measures of the republican party but has not taken an active part in
politics. Both he and his wife hold membership in the Latter Day Saints church, to the sup-
port of which they contribute. He is a successful business man. a good citizen and a loyal
friend, and all who have come in contact with him hold him in high esteem.
ATLEY A. PETERSON.
One of the leading business enterprises in Clifford is the general store owned by Peterson,
Rygg & Company and the establishment and building up of this business has been due in
large measure to Alley A. Peterson, the senior member of the firm. He is energetic and far-
sighted in the management of his affairs and has been one of the most important factors iiu
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 257
promoting the commercial growth of Clifford. He was born in Wisconsin September 19, 1873,
and is a son of Peter N. and Inga (Senesson) Peterson, who were born in Norway but emi-
grated to America in 1854. They located upon a farm in Wisconsin and the father concen-
trated his attention upon agricultural pursuits until the Civil war, when he enlisted in the
Union army, in which he served until the close of hostilities. He received a slight wound in
tlie arm but was fortunate in escaping other injury. Both he and his wife still reside upou
the homestead. To them were born fourteen children, of whom eleven are still living.
Atley A. Peterson was reared under the parental roof and at the usual age entered the
public schools, to which he is indebted for his early education. After completing the course
there ofl'ered he attended Valparaiso Cbllege in Indiana, thus still further preparing himself
for the responsibilities of life. In 1894, when a young man of about twenty-two years, he
came to Traill county, Xorth Dakota, and began clerking in a store at Clifford. He worked
in the employ of others for twelve years and during two j'ears of that time was a traveling
salesman, thus securing valuable information in regard to business conditions and methods
in various places. In 1906 he went into business for himself, becoming a member of Peter-
son, Rygg & Company, which has since conducted a general store. During the ten years that
the concern has been in existence its business has grown rapidly and has now reached grati-
fying proportions. Practically all lines of goods are carried and as the owners of the store
are painstaking in their endeavor to meet the peculiar needs of their community they are
able to turn over their capital rapidly and this insures them of increased profits. They use
up-to-date merchandising methods and their progressiveness and reliability have gained
them the patronage of the representative people of the community. Mr. Peterson gives the
most careful attention to the management of the store and much of the success of the busi-
ness has been due to his sound judgment and enterprise. The firm also holds stock in the
Farmers Elevator at Clifford.
On the 6th of September, 1897, Mr. Peterson was united in marriage to Miss Clara
Oswald, who was born in Wisconsin and is a daughter of Christian and Elena Oswald, the
former of whom is deceased, while the latter survives. Mr. and Mrs. Peterson have five
children, namely: Viola, who was born June 26, 1899, and is now attending normal school at
Mayville, North Dakota; Isadora, who was born September 29, 1901; Clifford, whose birth
occurred on the 20tli of July, 1904; At!e}% born April 11, 1909; and Carl, born October
10, 1915.
Mr. Peterson supports the democratic party at the polls and has taken quite an active
part in public affairs. For eight years he served as treasurer of his township and proved
capable and conscientious in the discharge of his duties. Fraternally he belongs to the
Modern Woodmen of America. His religious faith is indicated by the fact that he is a
member of the Lutheran church, to which his wife also belongs. He is enthusiastic over the
opportunities offered by North Dakota and has great faith in its future. When he removed
here he had no capital but he was not afraid of work and was quick to recognize and
utilize chances for advancement and is now financially independent.
OAISTER TREE.
Caister Tree is one of the well known residents of Wheatland and has gained gratif.ying
success as the proprietor of a meat market there. He also has other business interests and
owns considerable land. A native of Canada, he was born in Woodstock, .January 19, 1875,
a son of Horace and Louisa (Caister) Tree, both of whom were also natives of the Dominion.
In 1881 they removed with their familj' to Cass county. North Dakota, and became residents
of Casselton, where the father passed away. Subsequently the mother returned to Canada
and there spent her last years. They were the parents of six children but one is now
deceased.
Caister Tree remained at home until he became of age and his education was acquired
in the common schools. On beginning his independent career he engaged in the butcher busi-
ness in Wheatland and has since continued in that connection. He has one of the best meat
markets in the town and has built up a large and profitable trade. He also buys and sells
258 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
stock and in addition to tlie interests already mentioned conducts a dray line. He has
demonstrated his faith in the future of the state by investing in land, owning a quarter
section in McUenry county and also holding title to other property there. He owns the
building in which his meat market is located and his commodious and comfortable residence.
Mr. Tree was married in 1900 to Miss iHnnie Brintnell, who was born in Canada, a
daughter of J. C. and Johann Brintnell. Her father served in the United States army for
three years, but his demise occurred in Canada. The mother is still living and makes her
home in Canada. To them were born six children, of whom five are living. Mr. and Mrs.
Tree have two children. Merle B. and Lyle C.
Mr. Tree gives his political allegiance to the republican party and is now serving
acceptably as a member of the school board. Fraternally he is identified with Casselton
Lodge, No. 3, A. V. & A. M., at Casselton, and his religious faith is that of the Methodist
Episcopal church, to which his wife also belongs. They can be depended upon to further
the cause of right and justice in every way possible, and their sterling qualities of character
have gained them the sincere respect of their fellow citizens.
EDWARD ARNOLD.
Edw-ard Arnold, manager of the Northwestern Elevator Company's elevator at Everest,
is also engaged in merchandising there and is well known throughout Cass county. He was
born at Lockport, New York, on the 18th of March, 1874, a son of George P. and Kate
(Hilderman) Arnold, both of whom were natives of New York state. The father learned the
hatter's and furrier's trades in his youth and devoted a number of years to work along those
lines. In 1883, however, he came to North Dakota and took up a homestead and a preemp-
tion claim of one hundred and sixty acres each in Moraine township. Grand Forks county.
In due time he proved up on his land and continued to reside there, devoting his attention to
farming until 1910, when he sold out and removed to Larimore, where he engaged in the fur
business for several years. Previous to taking up his residence in Larimore he had spent a
number of winters there working at his trade.
Edward Arnold was educated in the common schools and passed the days of his boy-
hood and youth under the parental roof. When twenty-one years old he apprenticed himself
to the miller's trade, at which he worked for five years, but in 1900 he became identified
with the grain business, becoming second man in the Northwestern elevator at Larimore,
and in the intervening years has gained an enviable reputation as an enterprising and astute
business man. Since 1914 he has engaged in the merchandising business in Everest on his
own account and that undertaking has |)roved profitable.
On the 14th of June, 1909, ilr. Arnold was married to Miss Theresa Tritchlcr. of Cassel-
ton, by whom he has tw'o children, Elwood G. and Ralph.
Mr. Arnold is a republican but has never been an office seeker. He is identified with
the Ancient Order of United Workmen and the Y'eomen. Both he and his wife belong to
the Catholic church, the influence of which they seek to extend in all possible ways. They
have gained many warm personal friends and are held in high esteem because of the integrity
of their lives.
A. H. MERRHX.
A. H. Merrill, manager of the White Lumber Company's branch at Mooreton, has been
engaged in the lumber business for many years and understands it thoroughly. A native of
Maine, he was born November 4, 18.53, and is a son of Adolphiis and Susan P. (Perkins)
Merrill, also natives of the Pine Tree state, the former born in IS.'iO and the latter in 1827.
The paternal grandfather was A. H. IVTerrill. who owned the state quarries in Brownville,
l\faine. and who was a man of wealth, his estate being valued at three hundred thousand
dollars. In his early life he resided in JIassachusctts but was for many years a resident of
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 259
Maine. The maternal grandfather was Joseph Perkins a representative of a well known
New England familj'. Adolphus Merrill worked in the quarries all of his life and passed
away in Maine in 1908. He was a republican in politics and was a member of the Congre-
gational church, to whicli his wife also belonged. They were married in Maine on the 26th
of June, 1851, and became the parents of twelve children, of whom the subject of this review
is the eldest and of whom ten are living.
A. H. Merrill received his general education in the common and high schools and subse-
quently attended the Bangor Theological Seminar}', from which he was graduated in 1886.
He then went to Utah, where he did missionary work for the Congregational church for a
time, but on the 5th of December, 1887, he removed to North Dakota and for ten years en-
gaged in teaching school. In 1899 he took charge of a lumberyard, which he conducted until
1909, and during that time also published a newspaper. He is now manager of the White
Lumber Companj^'s branch at Mooreton and is I'ecognized as one of the most able representa-
tives of that concern, with which he has been connected for a number of years.
In 1876 Mr. Merrill was married to, Miss Augusta Sampson, also a native of Maine. Both
belong to the Congregational church, in the work of wliich they take an active interest. Mr.
Merrill casts his ballot in support of the prohibition party as he believes that many of the
problems which confront the country will be solved when the liquor traffic is done away with.
He has served as clerk of the school board and is deeply interested in everything that
promotes the mora! and intellectual advancement of his community. He devotes practically
his entire time to his business and the responsible duties devolving upon him are discharged
to the satisfaction of all concerned.
ANDREW 0. HEADLAND.
Andrew 0. Headland possesses the spirit of enterprise which is rapidly working a
marked transformation in North Dakota, developing the state along lines of substantial
progress and improvement. He has won success as a farmer of Stanley township, Cass
county, and is also president of the Farmers Elevator at Sanders. He was born in Norway,
March 10, 1874. His parents, 0. E. and Bertha Headland, were likewise natives of that
country but in June, 1875, emigrated to the United States. They located upon a farm in
Cass county. North Dakota, where both passed away. To them were born ten children, one
of whom is deceased.
Andrew 0. Headland remained at home until he became of age and then purchased the
farm where he now lives, on section 2, Stanley township. The place comprises a half section
of excellent land and he also has holdings in Minnesota farm lands. In the development of
his place he follows the most progressive methods, carefully rotating his crops, studying the
needs of the soil and procuring the best seed. He also utilizes the latest improved farm
machinery in facilitating the work of the fields and caring for the harvests, and his efforts
are attended with excellent results. He is president of and a large stockholder in the
Farmers Elevator at Sanders and is also vice president of the River Line Telephone Com-
pany. All this indicates his progressive spirit, showing him to be a man who never neglects
his opportunities but wisely uses his chances for the attainment of individual success, while
at the same time he contributes to public progress.
Mr. Headland was married in 1908 to Miss Clara C. Gallagher, a native of St. Paul,
Minnesota, by whom he has three children: Bcrnice Selina. Andrew Oliver and Adele Gurina.
Mrs. Headland had never lived upon a farm up to the time of her marriage but adapted
herself very readily to farm life and takes a deep interest in all that pertains to the benefit
and improvement of the farm and the advancement of agriculturists as a class. She is an
ardent believer in the Non-Partisan League, regarding it as the means by which the farmers
will become organized into a compact body, and instead of being merely producers and
tillers of the soil, will also have voice in the government and in the management of public
affairs. She believes that the women of the farm should have the most modern equipment
to aid them in their housework and she is a believer in the conservation of forces that the
best results may be secured. While not taking an active part in the work for woman suf-
260 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
frage, she is a firm advocate of tlie cause and feels that woman, having proven lierself the
equal of man in intelligence and capacity, should have equal voice with him in the manage-
ment of the allairs which so closely affect her life, for every public question bears strongly
upon the home.
Mr. Headland is a republican and is now serving as chairman of Stanley township,
while for twenty years he was a member of the school board. Fiaternally he is a thirty-
second degree Mason and in his daily life exemplifies the beneficent spirit and teachings of
the craft. He has a wide acquaintance in this part of the state and the many substantial
and admirable qualities which he has displayed have gained for him the warm and enduring
regard of his many friends.
1. M. BUXN.
I. M. Bunn, who owns and operates an elevator at Bufl'alo, is well known throughout
that section of the state as an expert grain buyer and excellent business man. A native
of Minnesota, he was born in Goodliue county on the 25th of September, 1862, of the
marriage of Isaac M. and Cynthia (Cryle) Bunn, both natives of Tennsylvania, where they
grew to maturity and where their marriage occurred. They continued to reside there until
the '50s, when, with their three children, they removed to Goodhue county, Minnesota, and
located upon a farm, where they resided until called by death.
I. M. Bunn passed the days of his boyhood and youth under the parental roof and at-
tended the common schools in the acquirement of an education. He also learned the car-
penter's trade and after removing to Mayville, Traill county, North Dakota, he engaged in
carpentering independently. On the 2d of January, 1890, he went to Lake Superior, Wis-
consin, where he followed his trade for two years, after which he returned to Xorth Dakota
and identified himself with the grain business, entering the employ of the Anienia & Sharon
Land Company. Ue was given charge of their elevator at Amenia, where he remained for
ten years, but in 1900 he went to Ward county and homesteaded one hundred and sixty
acres of land ten miles north of Minot. He proved up on this farm but in 1903 sold it and
returned to Cass county, again engaging in the grain business. He was manager of
Armour's elevator at Page until 1904, when he took charge of the Farmers elevator at
Chaffee. On the 1st of July, 1916, he resigned that position and purchased an elevator at
Buflfalo, Xorth Dakota, where he is now engaged in business. He is an excellent judge of
grain and keeps in close touch with the market, and has therefore steadily prospered.
In 1883 Mr. Bunn was married at Larimore, North Dakota, to Miss Nellie StuU, by
whom he had four children. Three of the number survive: Maud, the wife of S. T. Son-
sterud, of Grand Forks, this state; George B., who is manager of a grain elevator at Myra,
Cass county; and Iva, a stenographer at Fargo. The wife and mother passed away in
1900, and two years later Mr. Bunn was united in marriage to Miss Daisy Carroll, of
Goodhue county, Minnesota.
Mr. Bunn is a democrat in politics, but although he takes the interest of a good citizen
in public affairs, he has never sought nor desired office, his business interests requiring his
undivided time and attention. In all relati<ins of life he conforms to high ethical standards,
and he is not only respected as a man of ability but is also highly esteemed because of his
integrity and his pleasing personal qualities.
MORGAN J. FORD
Morgan J. Ford, cashier of the Farmers Bank of ^Vheatland, is recognized as a leader in
financial and business circles of Cass county. His birth occurred in Huron. Ontario, Canada,
April 11, 18G9, and his parents were Dennis and Bridget (King) Ford, both natives of
Ireland. The father, who was born in 1832, died in 1888. but the mother, whose natal year
was 1833, survived hira for over two decades, dying in 1909. They were married in Canada,
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 261
to which country the fatlier had removed when a youth of eighteen years, and there they
continued to live until 1878, when they came to North Dakota and settled in Gill township,
Cass county. The father took up a homestead and tree claim, on both of which he proved
up, and he continued to reside upon his land until called by death. He was a devout member
of the Roman Catholic church, the teachings of which guided his life. To him and his wife
were born eleven children, seven of whom are still living.
Morgan .T. Ford attended the common schools in the acquirement of his earl}' education
and subsequently was for one year a student in the University of ilinnesota. His boyhood
and youth were passed upon the home farm, and he early became familiar with practical
methods of agiiculture, which knowledge proved of gieat value to him when he began farm-
ing independent!}'. In 1912, however, he turned his attention to another field of activity,
removing to Casselton and working for the Frank Lynch Company for two years, after
which he took up his residence in \\lieatland and accepted the position of cashier of the
Farmers Bank. He has since held that office and in the management of the affairs of the
bank has manifested sound judgment and an understanding of the basic principles of finance
that underlie banking procedure. He owns nine hundred and sixty acres of fine land, and
the financial independence which he has gained is all the more notable in tliat he is a self-
made man.
In 1902 occurred the marriage of Jlr. Ford and Miss Mary Langer, who was born in
North Dakota and is a daughter of Frank J. Langer, an early settler of Cass county. Mr.
and Jlrs. Ford are the parents of four children: .John and Weldon, both of whom are in
school; and Morgan Dennis and Mary Evelyn, twins.
The republican party has in Mr. Ford a stanch adherent, but his business interests
leave him no time to take an active part in politics. His religious faith is that of the
Catholic chiu'ch, the work of which he furthers in every way possible. He is recognized as
a valued citizen, and his personal friends are many as his predominant characteristics are
such as invariably inspire confidence and regard.
WILLIAil JIcCOSH.
William McCosh, a general merchant of Ayr. North Dakota, was born in Ontario. Can-
ada, March 3, 18T3, and is a son of William and Elizabeth (Cullen) McCosh, the former a
native of Ayrshire, Scotland, and the latter of Nova Scotia. In his young manhood the
father emigrated to Ontario, where his marriage occurred and where he successfully engaged
in farming until he retired from active life, spending his last years in the enjoyment of a
period of rest in Kincardine. He died in 1913, but his wife is still living and makes her home
with a daughter in Saskatchewan.
William McCosh passed the days of his boyhood and youth at home and received the
greater part of his education in the public schools. In 1894 he came to North Dakota
and during the following winter was a student at the Agricultural College at Fargo. In the
spring, however, he began to work at bridge building, but after two months entered the
employ of Park, Grant & Morris, wholesale grocers of Fargo, with whom he remained for a
year. He then became connected with the whoesale grocery house of Lewis, Vidger & Com-
pany, remaining with that firm for about eight months, after which he accepted a position
with T. E. Yerxa, a grocer of Fargo. He remained in that employ for about seven years,
but in November, 1903, entered business for himself, becoming a member of the Ayr Store
Company, an incorporated concern, which conducts one of the leading general stores of Cass
county. From time to time he has bought more stock in the company, now owning more
than one-half, and since 1905 he has served as manager of the concern. His long connection
with various phases of merchandising well qualifies him for this responsible position, and
under his direction the store has proved a very profitable concern. He not only under-
stands how to buy to advantage, but has also made the sales department very eSicient and
his policy of giving full value for money received has commended the store to the patronage
of the public. In addition to general merchandise good lines of hardware and farm
machinery are handled, and the company also has the agency for the Overland automobile.
262 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
In 1905 Mr. ilcCosh was married to Miss Catherine Chapman, of Ayr, North Dakota,
and they have become the parents of four cliildren, Frances, Jessie, Edwin and Catherine,
ilr. McCosh is a standi republican and for many years served as town clerk, while at present
he holds the olliee of school director. Fraternally he is well known, belonging to the
Modern Woodmen; Hiram Lodge, No. 20, A. F. & A. M., at Page, also the chapter, R. A. M.,
and Dakota Consistory. His religious faith is indicated by the fact that he is a member of
the Presbyterian church, to which his wife also belongs, and in business as in other phases
of life he guides his conduct by the teachings of Christianity. He possesses sound judg-
ment and foresight and the determination necessary to carry his projects to successful
completion. He is justly considered one of the important factors in the commercial life of
the city of Ayr.
CARL 0. STROM.
Carl 0. Strom, cashier of the Bank of Berthold, was born at Madelia, Minnesota, Jan-
uary 24, 1890, a son of Peter and Thora (Helickson) Strom, both of whom are natives of
Norway. The father came to the new world when a young man of twenty-three years and
the mother was brought to America by her parents when a little maiden of seven summers.
Peter Strom directed his attention to farming and has continuously reside<l in Watonwan
county, Minnesota, yet occupying the old homestead, to the cultivation of which he has
devoted so many years of his life. He has served as township assessor for thirty-one years,
called again and again to that office by the vote of his fellow citizens, who appreciate his
fairness and faithfulness in the discharge of his duties. His family numbered seven chil-
dren.
Carl O. Strom, the youngest, attended the high school at Jladelia and afterward the
Mankato (Minn.) College, being graduated from both schools. He remained at home until
nineteen years of age and the summer months were devoted to farm work. He then left
Minnesota and for one year engaged in teaching school in Idaho, after which he was employed
at farm labor through the summer season and attended school in the winter months for
about two years, realizing that a broader education would enable him to better cope with
the conditions of business life. He then opened a real estate office in Madelia, where he
remained for about six months, after which he became interested in the banking business at
Kensington, Minnesota, in the capacity of bookkeeper. Three months later he went to Drake,
North Dakota, and later to Fessenden, this state, where he was employed as bookkeeper
until he came to Berthold in April, 1913. He entered the bank here as bookkeeper, but
after a short time was promoted to the position of assistant cashier and has since been made
cashier continuing in this connection for two years, his entire time and attention being
devoted to the interests of the bank.
In politics Mr. Strom is a republican, but has never sought nor desired oflicc. Frater-
nally he is connected with the Odd Fellows Lodge at Berthold and in that organization has
many warm friends. He is yet a young man, but has already gained a creditable position,
and many a man his senior might well envy the success which he has already achieved.
FRED A. IRISH.
Through the successive steps of an orderly progression Fred A. Irish has reached th'_
responsible and important position of vice president of the First National Bank of Fargo
and is accounted one of the prominent figures in financial circles in this state. He was born
at Taylors Falls, Minnesota, on the 29th of September, 1870, and was but nine years of age
when he went to Moorhead, Minnesota, in company with his parents, John S. and Emma
J. Irish. The father was a boat builder and contractor and led an active, busy and useful
life.
Fred A. Irish with the glowing enthusiasm of youth, entered upon the inirsuit of an
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 263
education and received liberal training in' that direction. Moreover, throughout his life he
has been a reader and a student of human nature and in the school of experience he has
learned many valuable lessons. When his text books were put aside he turned to the
banking business, securing a position in the First National Bank at Moorhead, Minnesota,
where he remained as assistant cashier until 1903. In that year he removed to Fargo and
was appointed to the position of assistant cashier in the Red River Valley National Bank,
with which he remained for about four years. On the 1st of January, 1906, he was elected
cashier of the First National Bank of Fargo and acted in that capacity until he was chosen
vice president of the same institution. He recognizes the fact that the bank which most
carefully safeguards the interests of its depositors is most worthy of public trust and he
has ever in its conduct adhered to a progressive policy that is tempered by conservatism.
In 1904 Mr. Irish was united in marriage to Miss Mila Brown, of Aberdeen, South
Dakota. In politics he is a republican, stalwart in support of the party, but has never
been an office seeker. Fraternally he is connected with the Masons and he also belongs to
the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and the Knights of Pythias. The community
knows him as a public-spirited citizen, one whose interest in the general welfare is deep and
sincere, finding expression in many tangible efforts to promote the public good. He has
always lived in the west and the spirit of enterprise which has been the dominant factor in
the upbuilding of this section of the country has found exemplification in his business
career.
H. E. SIEVERT.
H. E. Sievert, the owner and publisher of the Wyndmere Pioneer, one of the excellent
weekly papers of that section of the state, was born in Calumet county, Wisconsin, March
9, 1889, a son of E. C. and Helena (Bettner) Sievert, born respectively in Calumet county,
Wisconsin, in 1S63 and in New Richland, Minnesota, in 1870. They were married in the
Badger state and resided there for eight years thereafter. At the end of that time they
removed to Minnesota and they are now residing at New Richland, that state. The father
has a machine, wagon and blacksmith shop and is quite successful in business. In politics
he is a republican, while his religious faith is that of the Congregational church. To him
and his wife have been born four children: A. F., a druggist of Great Bend, this state; H.
E.; H. W., who is engaged in the lumber business at Freeborn, Minnesota; and Nita Fern, at
home.
H. E. Sievert was educated in the New Richland high school, from which he was gi-ad-
uated in 1908. and subsequently he clerked in a store for a year and a half. At the end of
that time he entered the newspaper business at New Richland and for two years served as
foreman of an office there. In 1913 he removed to Wyndmere, North Dakota, and purchased
the Wyndmere Pioneer, which has a circulation of seven hundred. Its news columns are
up-to-date and reliable and its editorials are forceful and concise. Mr. Sievert also does job
printing and has gained a gratifying patronage along that line. He is a republican and con-
ducts the Pioneer as a republican newspaper. Since becoming a resident of Wyndmere he
has gained many personal friends and his ability as a newspaper man is generally recog-
nized.
RICHARD C. HOCKING.
Richard C. Hocking is a member of the firm of Coil, Hocking & Company and is man-
ager of their store, which is one of the best in Wheatland. He is well known in Cass
county, where he has spent the greater part of his life, his birth there occurring on the
12th of January, 1879. His parents, John S. and Mary J. (Matters) Hocking, were both
born in England and emigrated to the United States in their youth. They were married
in Michigan, where they remained until 1877, when they removed to Cass county. North
Dakota, taking up a homestead and tree claim. The father was a poor man when he came
264 HISTORY OF XORTIT DAKOTA
to tliis state but lias gained a gratifying measure of success and is now well-to-do. He and
his wife are still living upon the home farm. To them were born eleven children, of whom
nine survive.
Richard C. Hocking was educated in the common schools of Cass county, and also in
Macalester College at St. Taul, which he attended for three years, and in a business college
at Minneapolis. On finishing his schooling he became bookkeeper for a cold storage com-
pany of Minneapolis, where he remained for three years. He was subsequently bookkeojier
for the Twin City Rapid Transit Company for nineteen months but in 1904 returned to
Cass county, North Dakota, and engaged in merchandising under the style of Coil, Hocking
& Company, which firm carries a well selected line of goods and is well patronized, its lib-
eral business policy enabling it to retain custom once gained.
In I'JOl Mr. Hocking was married to Miss Catherine S. Hawley, who was born in
Canada and by whom he has two children, Catherine E. and Richard Wendell.
Mr. Hocking gives his political allegiance to the republican party but has never been
an aspirant for office. Fraternally he is connected with the Masonic blue lodge and Royal
Arch chapter and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, in which he has filled all of the
chairs. His business ability and enterprise are generally acknowledged, and he is also recog-
nized as a public-spirited citizen and as a man of sterling qualities.
LE\T RICE.
Among the pioneers who, in spite of obstacles and privations, established their homes
in Cass county in the early days of its history and who, as the years passed, developed the
prairie into well improved farms, is numbered Levi Rice, who is now living retired in Tower
City, enjoying a richly deserved period of rest and leisure. His birth oce\u-red in Xova
Scotia on the 23d of August, 1840, and he is a son of Levi and JIargaret (Robison) Rice,
natives of Annapolis county, Nova Scotia, where their entire lives were passed. The father
devoted his time and energy to agricultural pursuits.
Levi Rice was reared under the parental roof and attended the public schools in the
pursuit of an education. When seventeen years of age he went to Bigby, Nova Scotia, where
he apprenticed himself to the carpenter's trade under his brother Abner. He worked at
carpentering in Bigby for twenty-three years, gaining an enviable reputation as an expert
and conscientious workman, but in 1880 he decided to try his fortune in North Dakota,
which he believed offered unusual oi)portunities to the man who was not afraid of hard work
and was determined to succeed. lie located in Cass county and homesteaded eighty acres
on section 32, Cornell township, which he soon brought under cultivation, and later, from
time to time he bought other land, becoming the owner oi live hundred and eighty acres in
all. He concentrated his energies upon the operatinn of liis farm, and his industry and
efficient methods resulted in the production of good ii-o|is whiili lirouiilit a high prirc on thr
market. In 1902, feeling that he had accumulated a competence, lie gave up the work of
the farm and removed to Tower City, where he has since lived retired. He owns stock in the
Farmers elevator at Power City.
Mr. Rice is one of the substantial uu'n of his county and his resilience is coiufortalile
and commodious, but during the first winter that he resided in this state he lived in an
eight foot square shanty, where he kept bachelor's hall. The following year, however, his
wife and his son Francis joined him and he built a shed addition to his shack which served
as the family residence for two years. At the end of that time he was able to erect a good
dwelling.
On the 3(1 of February, 1867, Mr. Rice was \inited in marriage to Miss Cassandra
Hawkswortli, a daughter of Joshua and Jfary (McCormack) Hawksworth and a native of
Bigby. Nova Scotia, in which country her jiarents spent their entire lives. Mr. and Mrs.
Rice have one son, Francis T., a lumlier merchant of Tower City, who married Katherine
Wasam and has two children, Clifford and Jfarjory.
Mr. Rice supports the republican party at the imlls. being cnTivuiii'il tliat (he ailii|i(i(in
of its policies would make for [irosperity and the sobitiipii of many iirolih'ins of the day,
f 1
I.i;\l KICK
MKS. LEVI RICE
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 269
and he manifests a eomniendable interest in everything that affects the general welfare.
He has served for a number of years as a member of the school board, proving capable and
conscientious in the discharge of liis duties. Both lie and his wife are members of tlie
Federated cliurch and no good cause appeals to them in vain.
LARS OLSGARD.
Lars Olsgard, vice president of the Bank of Wyndmere, was born in Richland county,
North Dakota, November 21, 1879, and is a son of Ola and Guri (Sorbel) Olsgard, both
natives of Norway, the former born on the 13th of May, 1845, and the latter in 1855. The
father emigrated to the United States in young manhood and settled in Richland county.
North Dakota, in 1871, being one of the early pioneers of the county. He took up land and
now owns three liundred and eighty acres, from which he derives a substantial income.
When he came to this state he was in straitened circumstances, but lie was energetic and
possessed good judgment and in time gained iinancial independence. He is an active mem-
ber of the Lutheran church which he aided in organizing, and his political belief is that of
the republican party. He is a well educated man and keeps informed on all questions of
public interest. He was married in Richland coimty to Miss Guri Sorbel, who died on the
7th of April, 1911. They were the parents of three children: Sophia, the wife of Gustav
G. Mellem, a hardware merchant of Wyndmere; Nels, who is living on the old home farm;
and Lars. Both of the grandfatliers of our subject died in Norway.
Lars Olsgard received an excellent education, graduating from Concordia College at
Moorliead, Minnesota, in 1897. In 1900 he engaged in the hardware business in Wyndmere
and so continued for three years, after whicli he entered the First National Bank as assistant
cashier. After being connected with that bank for four years he was made vice president of
the Bank of Wyndmere, in which capacity he is still serving. The institution is capitalized
at ten thousand dollars, has a surplus of five thousand dollars and its average deposits are
two hundred thousand dollars. Mr. Olsgard devotes practically his entire time to his duties
in connection with tlie bank and his detailed knowledge of the business and his good judg-
ment are important factors in tlie success of the institution. He began liis career without
•capital but has gained a gratifying measure of success and now owns considerable hind in tlie
county.
On the 9th of .Juno, 1907, Mr. Olsgard was united in marriage to Miss Freda Franz, a
native of St. Paul, Minnesota, and they have three children, Pearl, Evelyn and Viola. He is
a republican but does not take an active part in politics. Fraternally he is well known,
belonging to the Masonic blue lodge, the coinraandery and Shrine and to the Independent Order
of Odd Fellows. He takes a commendable interest in the advancement of his community
along moral, civic and commercial lines and is recognized as a valuable citizen.
S. F. SHERMAN.
As cashier of the First National Bank of Tower City, S. F. Sherman has demonstrated
his business acumen and sound judgment and his advice is often sought on matters of invest-
ment. He was born in the city which is still his home on the 6tli of December, 1881, a son
of R. P. and Sarah E. (Philips) Sherman, the former of whom was born in New York and
tlie latter in Michigan. They were married in the Wolverine state, which remained their
home until 1880, when they became settlers of Cass county, North Dakota. The father
established a bank at Tower City, which he conducted for thirty years and which was known
as the Tower City Bank. In 1911 he retired from business, having accumulated a competence,
and removed to California, where he and his wife are still living. All of their four children
survive.
S. F. Sherman was reared under the parental roof and received his early education in
the public schools of Tower City. Upon completing his preparatory work he attended the
Vol. 11—15
270 HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA
University of ilichigaii. Subsequently he entered his fatlier's bank as assistant cashier, wliiili
office he held until 1903, when a reorganization was effected, the institution becoming known
as the First National Bank, of which he became cashier. He has ably managed the affairs of
the bank, and the volume of its business has grown steadily from j'ear to year. He makes
the safeguarding of the interests of depositors and stockholders his first concern and yet
has been able to promote the financial and commercial e.xpansion of the community by judi-
ciously extended credit. In addition to his banking interests he is an extensive landowner.
In 1905 Jlr. .Sherman was married to Miss Gertrude E. Smith, also a native of Tower
City and a daughter of Henrj' V. and Louisa (Chapman) Smith, natives of Minnesota. Her
father is deceased, but her mother is still living. Mr. and ilrs. Sherman have two sons,
Richard Henry and l''rederick Smith.
Mr. Sherman casts his ballot in support of the candidates and measures of the republican
party and has taken an active interest in affairs of local government. He has served capably
as mayor and for the past fourteen years has been clerk of the board of education, doing
much in that time to promote the advancement of the public schools. His fraternal aflilia-
tions are with Cereal Lodge, Xo. 9, A. F. & A. M., in which he has tilled all of the chairs;
Tower City Lodge, No. 83, I. 0. O. F.; and Valley City Lodge, No. 1110, B. P. 0. E. Both
he and his wife attend the Federated church, and they at all times stand for righteousness
and moral advancement. They are widely known, and the circle of their friends is an exten-
sive one.
O. B. (iRAY.
Agricultural interests in North Dakota find a prominent representative in 0. B. Cray,
one of the large landowners of Cass county, operating one thousand acres in Rochester town-
ship, three miles from Page. He is also identified with the business interests of the town as
a dealer in agricultural implements and has built up a large trade in that connection. Mr.
Gray is a native of Wisconsin. He was born in Boseobel, March 5, 1865, a son of Joseph W.
and Emeline (Stone) Gray, both of whom were natives of the state of New York, where they
were reared and nuirried. About 1852 they migrated to Wisconsin, where the father acquired
a farm of three hundred and five acres near Boseobel, remaining thereon until 1880, when he
came to North Dakota an<l liome.steaded one hundred and sixty acres. He also secured an
additional tract of one hundred and sixty acres in Colgate township. Cass county, as a tree
claim and devoted his energies to the cultivation and improvement of his land until the
ileath of his wife about- 1903. He afterward made his home among his children but continued
to operate his farm, the boundaries of which he had extended until it comprised four hun-
dred and eighty acres. He was busily engaged in the cultivation and supervision of that
jilace U]! to the time of his death, which occurred in ^[anli, I'.ii:;. in politics lu' was a
republican but never an office seeker.
0. B. Gray spent his youthful days under the parental roof and acquired his education
in the public schools. He was Iwent.v-one years of age when he became a wage earner, .secur-
ing employment at farm labor. In 1888 he arrived in Page and engaged in the meat and live
stock business, operating along those lines for nineteen years. Later he purchased the con-
trolling interest in the Ayr State Bank, with whicli he was identified for about a j'ear and
a half, and in 1909 he established his present imi)lement business. He nuide his first invest-
ment in land in 1895, when he jiurchased a ipuirter section, but since that time he has made
other investments at various intervals until his holdings embraced one thousand acres, all
(if which is operated iinder his imnu'diate supervision. His is one of those fine and splendidly
developed farms which have made the state fanunis. He employs the most progressive
methods in the operation of his fields and in the conduct of every phase of the business and
his success is the logical, legitimate and well merited results of his efforts.
On the 8th of May, 1892, Mr. Gray was united in marriage to Miss Kate Ilanlcy, of
North Freedom, Wisconsin, by whom he had seven children, six of whom still survive, as
follows: Clarence, who works in his father's store: Edith, a student in the State Normal
School at Mawille, North Dakota; and Lewis, Inez, Merrill and .Tames, all at home.
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 271
Mr. Gray gives his political allegiance to the republican party and fraternally is indenti-
fied with the following organizations: Hiram Lodge, No. 30, A. F. & A. M., of Page; Dakota
Consistory, No. 1, A. & A. S. R.; El Zagal Temple, A. A. 0. N. M. S.; Fargo Lodge, No. 260,
B. P. 0. E.; the Ancient Order of United Workmen; and the Modern Woodmen of America
at Page. He has ever maintained an even balance in his life by his activities outside of the
pale of business and yet he never allows other things to interfere with the capabale manage-
ment of his commercial and agricultural interests. He is justly accounted one of the fore-
most business men of Cass county and is a representative of that class of men who have
made North Dakota one of the great agricultural states of the Union.
W. H. BARNETT.
Among the practitioners at the bar of Fargo, W. H. Barnett is well known and con-
temporaries and colleagues accord him a prominent and enviable position in the profession.
He has been a resident of the capital since 1880 and. in the intervening years has practiced
law, his ability bringing him ])rominently to the front in a calling where advancement is
secured only through individual merit. He was born in Wisconsin on the 23d of July, 1856,
and is a son of William D. and Julia A. (Huntley) Barnett, both of whom were natives of
the state of New York. The father went to Wisconsin in 1846 and there passed away in the
year 1868. His widow still survives and makes her home with her son, W. H. Barnett, in
the eighty-sixth year of her age. Although she has now advanced far on life's journey she
is still enjoying excellent health. She was the mother of three children, two of whom sur-
vive.
W. H. Barnett was reared and educated in Wisconsin and supplemented his public school
course by a course in the law department of the State University at Madison, from which
he was graduated with the class of 1880. He then sought a favorable field for practice and
came to Fargo, where he opened a law office and has since followed his profession. He
served as assistant states attorney for two years and was then elected states attorney, which
position he occupied for four years. He also filled the office of assistant United States attor-
ney by appointment for a term of five years. Through all the intervening period since his
arrival in Fargo his practice has been extensive and of an important character. Along with
those qualities found indispensable to the lawyer — a keen, rapid, logical mind, plus the busi-
ness sense and a capacity for hard work — he brought to the starting point of his legal career
certain rare gifts — eloquent language and a strong personalit}-. An elegant presence, an ear-
nest, dignified manner, marked strength of character, a thorough grasp of the law and
the ability to correctly apply its principles, are features in his effectiveness as an advocate.
In 1883 Mr. Barnett wedded Miss Lelah Tillotson, and in the city of their residence they
are widely and favorably known, occupying a prominent position in social circles. Mr. Bar-
nett is an earnest republican and has served as police magistrate of Fargo for eleven years.
His interests, however, chiefly center in his profession and his devotion to his clients' interests
has become proverbial. He has been retained in connection with much of the most important
litigation tried in the courts at Fargo and the records bear testimony to his ability and
success.
GEORGE \V. KELLEY.
George W. Kelley is one of those who have contributed to the business growth and
expansion of Tower City and who aided in organizing the Farmers Elevator Company there,
of which he has since served as manager. He owns eight hundred acres of land and is one of
the well-to-do residents of Cass county. A native of Minnesota, his birth occurred on the 16th
of Februar}-, 1859, and his parents were John and Jane (Hammel) Kelley, both of whom
were born in Ireland. In 1850 they emigrated to America and after residing in New Jersey
for four years removed to Minnesota, where they lived on a farm until 1880. In that year
272 HISTORY OF XORTH DAKOTA
they arrived in Cass county, North Dakota, and then^ they spent their remaining years. Two
of their three children are still living.
George W. Kelley was educated in the common schools of Jlinnesota and remained under
the parental roof until he reached man's estate. In 187Q he came to North Dakota and took
up land on section 8 Cornell township, Cass county, which he at once began to bring under
cultivation. He devoted twenty-five years to farming and from time to time bought addi-
tional land, acquiring in all eight hundred acres, all of which is improved. On leaving the
farm he removed to Tower City and helped to organize the Farmers elevator there, of which he
has since served as manager. He is an accmate judge of the quality of grain, keeps in close
touch with the markets and possesses sound judgment, and has proved very successful as
manager of the elevator, which does a large business. He is also vice president of the First
National Bank of Tower City and is treasurer and secretary of the local telephone company.
his sagacity and enterprise being factors in the advancement of the interests of those con-
cerns.
Mr. Kelley was married in 1894 to Miss Myrtle Beil, a native of Indiana, by whom he
has had eight children: George R., Vera. .John, Myrtle, Muriel, Helen and Roy, all of whom
are at home; and Frederick, who is deceased. Mr. Kelley is a stanch adherent of the repub-
lican party and for four years served as county commissioner, while for a number of years
he held the office of school director. He is a member of Tower City Lodge, No. 83, I. O. 0. F.,
and the teachings of the order are exemplified in his conduct. When he began his independent
career he had no capital and he has at all times depended upon his own resources. The grati-
fying measure of success which he has gained is therefore evidence of his ability.
GEORGE C. OTTIS.
George C. Ottis, the proprietor of the leading store in Wyndmere, also has a number
of other important business connections and has been a leading factor in the development of
his town and county. He was born in Cass county, North Dakota. September 17, 187.'), a son
of Samuel and Carrie (Eikery) Ottis, the former of whom was born in Denmark in 1841
and the latter in Wisconsin in 1847. The father served in the Danish army during the war
between Germany and Denmark, but in 1864 he emigrated to the United States and made
his way to Minnesota, where he farmed for a few years. In 1871 he came to Dakota terri-
tory and took up a homestead, which he developed into a well improved farm. He has been
very successful in business and still owns two sections of land after giving land to his chil-
dren. He also owns his residence at Kindred, where he is living retired. His political sup-
port is given the republican party, and he is a member of the Lutheran church. He was
married in Fillmore county, Minnesota, to Miss Carrie Kikery. who died in 1891. Of their
children four sons are living, namely: Louis, who is residing on the old homestead: George
C; Bernhard, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this work: and John, cashier of the
bank at Kindred.
George C. Ottis attended the public schools and was later for two years a student in
the Concordia College at Moorhead, Jlinnesota, where he completed the commercial course.
Subsequently he engaged in merchandising in Kindred for two years, after which, in 1900.
he removed to Wyndmere, where he has since remained. He began business on a small scale
but his store is now the largest in the town and the volume of his trade is growing steadily.
He has prospered from the beginning as he has always adhered closely to the strictest com-
mercial ethics and as he has spared no pains to supply the wants of his customers. In addi-
tion to his store he is financially interested in the Noonan Security Bank, the Davenport
Bank and the First State Bank at Opheim. ifontana, of which he is a director. He also
owns stock in a number of enterprises, including an elevator and a creamery, and he holds
title to a section of good land. He is one of the most successful men of Richland county, and
his record is the more creditable in that he has always depended entirely iijion his own
efforts.
Mr. Ottis was married in 1903 to ;Miss Clara llollingby. a native of Osage. Iowa, by
whom he has a daughter, Irene. He votes the republican ticket but is not otherwise active in
HISTORY OF NORTH DAKOTA 273
politics. Fraternally he is connected with the ilasonie blue lodge, conimandery and Shrine,
the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Woodmen. He holds membership in the
Lutheran church and its teachings have guided his life. He is not only widely known and
highly respected throughout the county but there are many who are his warm personal
friends.
L. H. STINE.
L. H. Stine, of Tower City, is one of those men who, having gained a competence through
the cultivation of the soil, have now retired and are enjoying a well deserved period of rest
and leisure. He was born in Hungary on the 3d of December, 1870, a son of Frank and
Rosa Stine, also natives of that country. The father died in Hungary, but in 1884 the
mother came to America and passed her last years in this country, dying in Jlinnesota
in 1889.
L. H. Stine, who is the only child born to his parents, came to the United States when
but twelve years of age and resided in Minnesota until 1893, in which year he came to North
Dakota and settled upon a farm in Barnes county. He devoted his time and energy to agri-
cultural pursuits and as the years passed his resources increased steadily, for he was practical
and progressive in his methods and managed his business affairs well. In 1915 he sold his
farm and removed to Tower City, where he is now practically living retired. In partnership
with another gentleman, Mr. Stine purchased the store of W. W. Kueg & Company at
Tower City in the early summer of 1916, and they now carry a stock valued at about
twenty-five thousand dollars. Although he does not give his personal attention to the
business, his son George is assisting in the management of the store. Mr. Stine also recently
purchased one of the most modern residences of the city and there he_ and his family are
now living.
Mr. Stine was married in 1894 to Miss Lenna F. Felstad, a native of Norway, who,
however, was brought to this country by lier parents when but five years old. To this unit)n
have been born four children: George, who attended college at Far